ASWB Social Work Practice Questions

The research design most often used by social workers to improve their practice is:

a. experimental design

b. single-subject design

c. longitudinal design

d. quasi-experimental design

b. single subject design

A 26 yr/old female client shares with her male social worker that she is becoming attached to him and often has sexual fantasies about him. She also shares that she would like to see him socially. What should be the social worker's first responsibility?

a. discuss the client's feelings about her sexual fantasies

b. immediatly refer the client to a female social worker

c. clarify the professional nature of the social worker-client relationship

d. discuss the client's pas relationships.

c. clarify the professional nature of the social worker-client relationship.

The primary purpose of a service plan is to

a. establish goals

b. assess the home situation

c. monitor behavioral changes

d. evaluate client progress

a. establish goals

In treating a client in crisis, the caseworker should focus on...

a. the immediate presenting problem

b. a few specific problems in day-to-day functioning

c. a wide range of problems in day to day functioning

d. underlying personality problems

a. the immediate presenting problem

When faced by a hostile client in an agency setting, it is best for the social worker to

a. suggest that the client's attitude is making the situation worse

b. accept the client's hostility and talk about non-threatening topics

c. set limits and structure on the interview session

d. acknowledge the client's feelings and encourage discussion of them

d. acknowledge the client's feelings and encourage discussion of them

You are a social worker in an outpatient setting. A new client arrives for her first session with you. The client has noticeable hair loss and tells you that she is very tense and is having problems in her relationship with her boyfriend. Your first diagnosis would likely be

A. Borderline personality disorder

B. generalized anxiety disorder

C. Schizophrenia

D. Trichotillomania

D. Trichotillomania

A social worker who attempts to impose their judgement on clients is most likely to elicit the client's

a. acquiescence

b. cooperation

c. resistance

d. appreciation

c. resistance

Establishing rapport with a client is essential in the initial stages of counseling. All of the following techniques are effective except

a. moderate levels of self-disclosure

b. admitting your mistakes

c. sharing personal experience

d. responding to a client's nonverbal messages

c. sharing personal experience

A social worker meets with a refugee couple in the hospital soon after the birth of their baby. The infant has Down syndrome and cardiac problems. The couple asks that the child be allowed to die. The social worker should first:

a. report the case ot child protection services becuause of the at-risk nature of the situation

b. offer the parents the option of relinquishing the child for adoption

c. encourage the parents to meet with other parents of Down syndrome children

d. perform a biopsychosocial assessment including cultural, religious and familial factors.

d. perform a biopsychosocial assessment including cultural, religious and familial factors

The youngest child of a single parent is hospitalized for the second time in four months because of lead poisoning. The child is now ready for discharge, but the doctor refuses to go ahead with the release, citing an unsafe home environment. When interviewed by the hospital social worker, the parent says that the landlord will no have their apartment repainted or make other necessary repairs. The parent wants to move, but is unable to afford living arrangements that will also allow four children. After reporting the situation to child welfare authorities, the social worker should

a. advise the parent to withhold rent until repair work is done.

b. advocate for the child to return home with the parent

c. refer the parent to a resource that can help locate suitable housing

d. report the landlord's lack of cooperation to the housing authority

c. refer the parent to a resource that can help locate suitable housing

A client who has received services for several years in a dialysis unit appears for a routine visit. The nurse notices a markedly changed affect and refers the client to to the social worker. When seeing the social worker, the client seems detached, self-absorbed, and tearful. The social worker should first assess the client's

a. life situation and recent changes

b. compliance with medical care

c. concerns about dying

d. feelings about dialysis

a. life situation and recent changes

A widower requests help from a social service agency for himself and his two young children. The man explains that his wife died three weeks ago and that he now needs childcare services for his children so that he can return to work. He is obviously in a state of grief and shock over the loss of his wife. The presenting problem in this situation is.

a. the recent death of his wife

b. the absence of supporting relatives

c. the need for childcare services

d. the need for employment

c. the need for childcare services

A social worker employed at a residential youth services agency learns that a fellow employee has multiple convictions for sexual molestation of young children. The agency is unaware of his history. Sexual offenses automatically disqualify applicants for employment in the agency. The social worker's professional and ethical obligation is met by:

a. saying and doing nothing

b. urging the employee to reveal his history to management

c. immediately notifying the responsible agency supervisor of the situation

d. notifying the man's probation officer

c. immediately notifying the responsible agency supervisor of the situation.

During Mrs. S's first appointment in a family agency, the social worker encourages her to express her feelings about the recent placement of her child in a residential facility for the developmentally disabled. Mrs. S talks at length about her physcial health problems. The social worker should,

a. use Mrs. S's remarks about her health to identify unresolved parenting issues

b. refocus the interview on the child's behavior and the reason for the residential placement

c. explore with Mrs. S how her health problems are related to the recent placement of her child.

d. listen to Mrs. S's description of her health as a beginning of a relationship and means of assessing her self-perception.

d. listen to Mrs. S's description of her health as a beginning of a relationship and means of assessing her self-perception.

A social worker is interviewing a new patient who presents with some symptoms of depression. The patient reports recent changes such as diminished functioning, marked weight gain, early morning awakening, fatigue, inability to concentrate, and headaches. The patient mentions that he started a new medication for a medical condition three weeks ago. The worker would first.

a. arrange a psychiatric consultation in order to have an anti-depressant prescribed

b. ascertain the prescribed medication and investigate its side-effects

c. proceed with a thorough psychosocial history and precipitating events

d. hospitalize the patient

b. ascertain the prescribed medication and investigate its side-effects

The policy of Permanency Planning refers to

a. children who are at risk of removal or are removed from their own homes

b. the development of a plan through which abused and neglected children will be assured of a stable family situation throughout childhood

c. a stable foster care plan for children removed from their homes

d. the use of adoption for children at risk

b. the development of a plan through which abused and neglected children will be assured of a stable family situation throughout childhood

An adolescent has been referred to a social worker because of school-related difficulties. During the intake interview with the family, the parents become angry and begin verbally attacking the teen. The social worker's most appropriate action is to

a. allow the parents to continue to vent their anger

b. stop the interview and see the teen alone

c. focus on the parent's expression of anger

d. ask the teen to leave the room.

c. focus on the parent's expression of anger

In preparing for an interview with a client who is receiving ongoing services, the MOST important thing for the social worker to do is to:

a. clearly identifying the purpose of the upcoming interview

b. review previous case notes in the client's folder

c. determine if there are new agency policies that pply to this client

d. mentally review progress the client that has made toward goal attainment

a. clearly identify the purpose of the upcoming interview

A hospital patient is referred to social services after she complains of insufficient money for food. After talking with the patient, the worker's diagnosis is that the patient, although from a low income family, is not indigent. She seems to constantly have difficulties managing money and does not appear to handle her funds appropriately. Her diet appears nutritionally adequate. The worker's most appropriate action would be to:

a. help the patient obtain assistance from a casework agency for help with money management

b. provide continuing casework treatment though the hospital social services department to insure that her diet remains adequate

c. suggest to the patient that she apply to the public welfare agency to determine eligibility for public assistance

d. reassure the patient that her income can be made to cover her essential needs

a. help the patient obtain assistance from a casework agency for help with money management.

During a first interview, a social worker observes that the client moves slowly, has a stooped posture, talks slowly and in a lifeless way, lacks spontaneity, and shows little change in facial expression. The worker would most likely suspect:

a. depression

b. a manic stage

c. anxiety

d. delusional thinking

a. depression

A couple expressing extreme anger at each other come to a social worker for marital counseling. The social worker should FIRST:

a. explore the goals the anger is masking

b. clarify whether each partner is willing to hear the other

c. acknowledge the anger each partner has towards the other

d. use the interview to probe for positive feelings each has for the other

c. acknowledge the anger each partner has towards the other

A social worker has been asked to assist an elderly client in making alternative living arrangements. In the initial interview, the client repeatedly attempts to discuss past experiences. What is the social worker's MOST appropriate response to the client?

a. ignore the references to the past

b. facilitate discussion of the recollections

c. refer the client for psychiatric evaluation

d. administer a geriatric evaluation scale

b. facilitate discussion of the recollections

A hospital social worker interviews a couple whose six month old infant has recently been hospitalized for cystic fibrosis. The social worker notices that the parents are reluctant to touch the child. Based on this information, the social worker's first intervention should be to:

a. explore the parent's reaction to the child's illness

b. refer the couple to a support group

c. evaluate the situation for out-of-home placement

d. provide the couple with information

a. explore the parent's reaction to the child illness

A social worker makes a home visit to a Cambodian family whose young child was diagnosed with CP. The worker found that the child waws kept in a darkened room and though fed, was isolated from the family, denied any affection, and seldom bathed. The grandfather wanted the child removed from the family. The social worker should first

a. try to relate to the family to learn more about their values

b. ask the mother to ask the grandfather to move out

c. call Cambodian community agencies to ask for support.

d. report the situation to child protective services

d. report the situation to child protective services

In the initial phase of treatment, the primary task of the social worker is to:

a. establish a warm relationship with the client

b. understand why the client is seeking help

c. engage the client in treatment

d. gather information for psychological diagnosis

b. understand why the client is seeking help

During an initial interview with a social worker, a client begins to express suicidal ideation. What should the social worker's first response be.

a. recommend hospitalization

b. assess the client's level of risk

c. establish a behavioral contract

d. provide supportive reassurance

b. assess the client's level of risk

A social worker maintains client records in a safe environment and only releases information as provided by law. The intent of these procedures is to protect

a. the client's right of due process

b. client confidentiality

c. agency record requirements

d. self-determination by the client

b. client confidentiality

Which method should social workers use to assess practice activities and outcomes.

a. evaluate client's goal attainment

b. review their personal performance evaluations

c. Keep and review case records and notes

d. ask clients for anonymous evaluations.

a. evaluate client's goal attainment

A major criterion for a diagnosis of a substance abuse disorder involves

a. occasional use

b. an arrest record

c. family violence

d. impairment in social and/or occupational functioning due to use

d. impairment in social and/or occupational functioning due to use

Slurred speech, an unsteady gait, impaired attention, sudden mood changes, and impared judgement are symptoms frequently found in

a. anxiety disorder

b. ADHD

c. alcohol intoxication

d. schizophrenia

c. alcohol intoxication

Delusions, hallucinations and inappropriate affect are characteristics of

a. narcissistic personality

b. anxiety disorder

c. antisocial personality

d. schizophrenia

d. schizophrenia

In the social work/client relationship, acceptance is defined as:

a. a neutral stance

b. unconditional positive regard

c. agreement with client's values

d. an expression of approval

b. unconditional positive regard

In the first interview with a battered woman who wants to leave her violent husband, the social worker should be most aware

a. that women often make false claims of violence to improve their situation in custody and financial battles associated with divorce.

b. that family treatment should be encouraged as it can reduce the levels of violence

c. that the woman may be in great danger, as men who batter are often enraged by the woman's effort to seek help.

d. that court orders of protection, social services, and community supports are readily accessible and available to most battered women.

c. that the woman may be in great danger, as men who batter are often enraged by the woman's effort to seek help.

In counseling battered women, social workers should keep in mind that most battered women are

a. do not care for the batter and find it easy to leave him.

b. believe that they can stop the violence by learning new techniques to control the behavior of their mates

c. trust the confidentiality and protection of the agency

d. do not experience ambivalence towards the batterer and their relationship

b. believe that they can stop the violence by learning new techniques to control the behavior of their mates

A family comes to an agency complaining of their child's behavior problems. As a result of the assessment phase, the social worker believes that the marital relationship is the primary problem. The social worker should focus on:

a. the parents, confronting them with their relationship issues

b. the child and the ways the parents should react to the behavior

c. a discussion of the social worker's perception of the marital relationship

d. developing the child's insight into behavior as a reaction to marital stress

c. a discussion of the social worker's perception of the marital relationship

The goal of the state when working with a family via dependency case is?

A. Create an environment that promotes self esteem for the children

B. Keep kids & their families together

C. Provide an education for the child

D. Establish a safe and permanent home ASAP

D. Establish a safe and permanent home ASAP

A 17 year old boy worries about undressing in the locker room at school. The boy has no genital or underarm hair and believes his genital s are underdeveloped. The adolescent is referred to the school social worker . The social worker would first

a. encourage the youth not to be ashamed

b. suggest the youth see a physician who specializes in this issue

c. refer the youth and his family to family therapy

d. discuss the issue with the physical education teacher

a. encourage the youth not to be ashamed

The contract is a basic concept in social work practice. Its major features do not include.

a. mutual agreement

b. differential participation in the intervention process

c. reciprocal accountability

d. free association

d. free association

The long range focus of community organization techniques is to:

a. develop trust

b. alleviate anxiety

c. reduce dependability

d. arouse anger

c. reduce dependability

A 28 year old client with a long standing history of drug use is referred to a social worker by a concerned relative. In the assessment interview, the client tells the social worker about frequent cocaine use. The social worker should first.

a. conduct a family interview to evaluate the families concern

b. begin treatment, focusing on the reason for drug abuse

c. refer the client to a substance abuse program

d. evaluate the client's motivation for change

c. refer the client to a substance abuse program

The developmental task for self evaluation and skill learning are associate with what life stage?

a. toddlerhood 2-4 yr

b. early childhood 4-6 yr

c. middle childhood 6-12 yr

d. early adolescence 12-18 yr

c. middle childhood 6-12 yr

In working with an acutely depressed client, a social worker's main concern in a first interview is

a. formulating the correct diagnosis

b. referring the client to a psychiatrist

c. determining suicidal intent

d. selecting the best medication

c. determining suicidal intent

A social worker answered a call on a suicidal hotline from a call her who is sarcastic and hostile. The worker's best response is:

a. I have no time for this

b. I need to keep this line open, so please get to the point or hang up.

c. I am going to hang up, so you can call back when you are serious

d. I know it was hard for you to make this call, but could you tell me more about the reason for this call

d. I know it was hard for you to make this call, but could you tell me more about the reason for this call

According to the NASW code of ethics, a social worker's respect for a client's rights to confidentiality

a. forbids sharing confidences revealed by clients with others including insurers and supervisors.

b. is left to the worker's discretion

c. includes sharing information revealed by clients with others, without their consent, for compelling reasons.

d. requires workers to keep minimal records since these may not be absolute secure

c. includes sharing information revealed by clients with others, without their consent, for compelling reasons.

A social worker uses self-disclosure most appropriately during an interview with a client to

a. communicate empathy

b. facilitate discussion of sensitive topics

c. express genuineness

d. express positive feelings about clients

b. facilitate discussion of sensitive topics

The two most common defenses used by couples with marital problems are

a. repression and denial

b. repression and suppression

c. projection and displacement

d. projection and splitting

c. projection and displacement

A client who expresses no overt anger accuses her social worker of being angry, hostile, suspicious and cold. The process being used is most likely

a. projective identification

b. paranoia

c. reaction formation

d. isolation of affect

a. projective identification

A social worker consistently exceeds job standards. To help the social worker maintain the level of performance, the supervisor should:

a. put a letter of commendation in the social worker's personal file

b. provide the social worker with feedback on an ongoing basis

c. arrange a merit increase for the social worker

d. recommend the social worker for promotion

b. provide the social worker with feedback on an ongoing basis

A social worker facilitates a group of young adults. One member rudely disagrees with the social worker's comments. The social worker is annoyed by this behavior. His best response is to:

a. communicate the feelings of annoyance

b. speak to the person after the group

c. allow the group to respond

d. do nothing until it happens again

a. communicate the feelings of annoyance

A patient in a psychiatric hospital is stealing food and hoarding towels. A program of positive and negative reinforcement techniques is starting to address this behavior. The stealing and hoarding was reduced as a result. In this incident, the reinforcement technique would be considered the:

a. independent variable

b. dependent variable

c. parallel variable

d. causal variable

a. independent variable

A client in a state of crisis is most likely to evidence

a. reliance on prior patterns of coping

b. preoccupation with the precipitating stress

c. resistance to change

d. reflection on early experiences of stress

b. preoccupation with the precipitating stress

During an adult support group, Jerry often speaks sarcastically of Henry's appearance and his inability to communicate well. Joe and Alice are irritated by Jerry's statements and finally tell them that they do not like his behavior. Jerry turns to the social worker and asks him what he did wrong. The social worker would:

a. suggest to Jerry that he ask Joe and Alice what they meant

b. do nothing

c. ask Jerry why he speaks so sarcastically

d. ask Jerry if he is aware of what he is doing

a. suggest to Jerry that he ask Joe and Alice what they meant

A clinic forms a treatment group session of young adults. 4 men and 4 women. All 8 clients are present for the first group session. The social worker introduces himself and the members introduce themselves. Then everyone looks expectantly at the social worker. There is silence. The social worker's most appropriate response is to

a. comment that they are clearly expecting her to start things

b. ask everyone to say something about the problems that have brought them to this group

c. not break the silence; wait for the group to start

d. Ask, "where would you like to start"

b. ask everyone to stay something about the problems that have brought them to this group.

A middle aged women complaining of recent lack of motivation is seen by a social worker in a mental health agency. The worker would first rule out

a. depression

b. situational stress

c. anxiety

d. bi-polar

b. situational stress

Mrs. Lopez, age 76 lives with her adult daughter. She was recently released from the hospital after hip replacement surgery. She refuses to enter a nursing home although her daughter works and cannot care for her full time. What is the most important task of the medical social worker at this time.

a. give the family phone numbers for community resources and tell them to make their own arrangements to assure self-determination

b. assess the strengths of the family for coping with a disabled parent and the potential goodness of fit with home care and visiting nurse agencies

c. insist that Mrs. Lopez enter a nursing home

d. ask the doctor to insist that Mrs. Lopez enter a nursing home.

b. assess the strengths of the family for coping with a disabled parent and the potential goodness of fit with home care and visiting nurse agencies.

A child who has been sexually abused asks her social worker to keep the abuse a secret. The social worker would:

a. agree to keep the secret

b. expose the secret without telling the child.

c. tell her that secrets that hurt people need to be talked about openly

d. ask the parents for guidance

c. tell her that secrets that hurt people need to be talked about openly

In Piaget's theory of the cognitive stages of development, a 2-4 year old would be in the...

a. pre-operational stages

b. concrete operational stages

c. sensory motor stages

d. formal operational stages

a. pre-operational stages

A social worker meets a recently widowed 55 year old friend in the supermarket and talks with her briefly. She seems sad and says she has little appetite for food and reduced interest in her usual activities. She says she has a much diminished desire to visit with friends, though she is usually very social. The most probable DSM-IV diagnosis is.

a. depression

b. post-menopausal depression

c. grief reaction

d. there is no DSM-IV diagnosis

d. there is no DSM-IV diagnosis

The NASW definition of social work includes an emphasis on

a. clinical practice

b. both macro and micro level practice

c. political action

d. continuing education

b. both macro and micro level practice

The unique focus of social work is on

a. psychological aspects of life

b. spiritual aspects of life

c. social functioning of individuals, families, and groups

d. ethical standards for practice

c. social functioning of individuals, families, and groups

A 40-year-old male client explains that he is seeking care because he suffers from panic attacks. He notes that he gets chills, nausea, dizziness, and experiences fear about once a day. A social worker's FIRST step with this client would be to

a. Teach relaxation therapy

b. Set goals for reduction of anxiety

c. Arrange for a doctor's appointment

d. Assess the client's current situation

d. Assess the client's current situation

Your have accepted a position working in a sheltered workshop. You will be trained by the last social worker before she leaves her post for a new job. The workshop is specifically designed to help individuals suffering from a developmental delay. You would expect the social worker training you to us a primarily focused on a behavioral approach. Of the following interventions, which would she be LEAST LIKELY to use to train you?

a. Provide positive reinforcement to strengthen enhance work performance

b. Assess current familial relationships

c. Create a performance contract with the client

d. Review a new client's past workplace behavior

b. Assess current familial relationships

A counselor at a local high school contacts a social worker in the welfare protection agency and describes the situation of a 14-year-old girl reporting sexual abuse by her father. The social worker's FIRST step should be to:

A. Remove the child from the home

B. Interview the child immediately

C. Contact the police

D. Contact the family

B. Interview the child immediately

During a group session, a client shares that 7 years ago he set a building on fire, which resulted in the death of a security guard. The social worker may do all of the following EXCEPT:

A. Ask group members how they want to handle the situation

B. Ignore the statement because the situation happened 7 years ago

C. Check out members' feelings

D. Encourage the client to speak with the police

A. Ask group members how they want to handle the situation

The primary factor for a social worker to consider when setting up a behavioral treatment program for a client is:

A. The nature of the dysfunctional behavior

B. The outcome desired

C. The dysfunctional thoughts behind the behavior

D. The triggers for the behavior

A. The nature of the dysfunctional behavior

The primary function of management is to

A. Attend to the staffing of the organization

B. Plan organizational activities

C. Achieve the goals of the organization

D. Maintain the morale of employees

C. Achieve the goals of the organization

The Sustaining system consists of

A. The individual's family

B. The "helping" professions

C. Institutions of the larger society

D. A physiological system that sustains life

C. Institutions of the larger society

There are many different types of groups that social workers lead. The type of group MOST associated with self-improvement and opportunities to expand self-awareness is

A. The Therapeutic Group

B. The Socialization Group

C. The Growth Group

D. The Recreational Group

C. The Growth Group

A child welfare worker has been assessing custody of a child in a divorce case. The guardian ad litem has also been making this assessment. MOST LIKELY, the guardian ad litem's assessment will be:

A. Different

B. Similar

C. Biased

D. Formulative

B. Similar

A SW at an outpatient clinic is working with 38 yr old female who reports having difficulty sleeping for the past 2 weeks. The woman reports that she has been getting a lot of ideas of what she can do in her life and that she cannot keep up with all of them. The woman reports that she has spent all of her money on materials to advance her life and is now at risk for losing her house. The client has never been hospitalized and denies ever being on meds. What is the most likely diagnosis.

A. Bipolar I

B. Bipolar II

C. GAD

D. Schizophrenia

A. Bipolar I

For rapport to develop, it is important for a social worker to:

a. always empathize with the client

b. have similar issues as the client

c. be congruent in words and behaviors

d. be aware of personal biases

d. be aware of personal biases

a social worker discovers that a nurse is giving more pain medication to a patient than the doctor has prescribed. What should the social worker do?

a. discuss the issue with the nurse

b. report the nurse immediately to the medical board

c. immediately tell the nurse's supervisor

d. tell the doctor

a. discuss the issue with the nurse

A man in the army is referred to a social worker for alcohol abuse. He and his wife have been having many arguments about his drinking, which have escalated into physical abuse. What you consider for an intervention?

a. assess for alcohol abuse and continue therapy

b. refer to a marriage/family therapist

c. refer to an alcohol treatment center

d. refer to domestic violence classes

c. refer to an alcohol treatment center

FARM GRITS ROAD

Do not treat alcoholics

Of the following, which would be least important in the acculturation of an Asian girl in treatment with a social worker?

a. the wishes of her parents

b. the social worker's experience with similar situations

c. the social worker's skills

d. the girl's network of friends

d. the girl's network of friends

Acculturation: assimilation to a different culture, typically the dominant one.

When considering Native American customs and developing service plans, social workers should understand that:

a. all Native Americans have the same culture and tribal differences are minor

b. there are important reasons why Native Americans never integrated into American culture

c. with more than 500 tribal groups, there are substantial cultural and social differences

d. it is important for Native Americans to separate from traditional culture if they want to succeed economically

c. with more than 500 tribal groups, there are substantial cultural and social differences

The positive cultural value that is expressed in the ideals of "machismo" is:

a. masculinity

b. family provider and protector

c. power and control

d. cooperation

b. family provider and protector

John, a Japanese immigrant, comes into the office with his 12 year old child, Amanda. Amanda asks if she can be used as an interpreter due to the family's imminent need for housing services. The social worker's best course of action would be to...

a. allow Amanda to interpret just for this session and then hire a professional interpreter for future sessions.

b. refer John and Amanda to a Japanese Social Worker.

c. Hire a trained interpreter and proceed as soon as possible.

d. Try and communicate through an online interpretation device.

c. Hire a trained interpreter and proceed as soon as possible.

Empirical research on diagnostic patterns has historically demonstrated that African Americans with the same symptom presentation as Caucasians will often be diagnosed:

a. less severely

b. more severely

c. the same

d. the research is irrelevant

b. more severely

A psychological, cultural and political orientation to life that both determines and influences how people think, behave, make decisions and understand phenomena is usually called a:

a. world view

b. culture

c. personal opinion

d. perception

a. world view

A hospital social worker receives definitive information that a social work colleague is engaged in a sexual relationship with a client. In deciding what to do, the social worker must first consider:

a. the impact on the client

b. the impact on the profession

c. the Code of Ethics

d. the views of the supervisor and administration

c. the Code of Ethics

Data collection in the engagement phase of social work practice means that social workers:

a. identify clients' financial and insurance resources

b. seek out information on any legal or criminal problems

c. interview clients and fill out forms during the initial interview

d. read documents, records and other written materials

c. interview clients and fill out forms during the initial interview

A family has just relocated from a homeless shelter to permanent housing. The mother is in recovery from alcohol abuse. The father has been violent with the mother and is unemployed. The 8 year old changed schools 6 times in the past year. The family's records describe the family's problems and note the "contract" to which the parents have agreed and the services that will be provided. The social worker in the permanent housing program's first task is to:

a. assure that the mother continues in an AA program

b. review and prioritize the family's problems and reinforce the family's commitment to addressing them

c. help the father find a job

d. accompany the parents to school with the child

b. review and prioritize the family's problems and reinforce the family's commitment to addressing them

A recent social work graduate displays excellent relationship skills and a strong commitment to clients. The worker knows she has difficulty in translating her insights and goals into specific treatment plans. The worker might ask the supervisor to:

a. point out problems and correct her when she loses sight of the goals

b. provide concrete support and detailed help in areas that require improvement

c. pair her with a more experienced worker

d. provide written guidelines on good practice

b. provide concrete support and detailed help in areas that require improvement

5. Per Minuchin, psychosomatic families are most likely to be characterized by which of the following:

A. frequent intense open conflicts between family members

B. weak boundaries between family members

C. family roles that are inflexible and stereotyped

D. marked emotional distance between the husband and wife

B. weak boundaries between family members

Data collection in the engagement phase of social work practice means that social workers:

a. identify clients' financial and insurance resources

b. seek out information on any legal or criminal problems

c. interview clients and fill out forms during the initial interview

d. read documents, records and other written materials

c. interview clients and fill out forms during the initial interview

Engagement is collaborative. Think - engaging with clients to gather information.

A client expresses her disappointment at not being called back after a job interview and vents her anger at the job interviewer. She informs her social worker of this exchange. The social worker's best response is:

a. You have to be patient in a job search

b. I can see that you're upset about this

c. I wonder how you feel about this

d. I guess you're hurt and angry about not getting the job

d. I guess you're hurt and angry about not getting the job

A. is wrong because you are giving advice (FARM GRITS ROAD)

B is wrong because the client "vents her anger." Do not assume what is not in the question. Nowhere does she say she is upset.

C is wrong because venting does not always require further analysis, but it is important for SWs to clarify what the client means.

A social worker works with a clientele with varied substance and chemical dependencies and decides to establish a new group focused on drug and alcohol rehabilitation. In the first stages of the group, the worker might expect:

a. denial, rationalization, projection

b. low self worth, acceptance, projection

c. surrender, delusions, rationalization

d. denial, rationalization, compliance

a. denial, rationalization, projection

A is correct because it is most likely to see these traits during the early process of sobriety.

B is wrong because these traits are likely to be seen in later steps of rehab - it takes time for acceptance to occur. Read carefully!

C is wrong because "delusions" are not associated with rehab -delusions are a sign of psychosis!! If psychosis is present, social workers must refer to a psych institute prior to working on other goals.

D is wrong because "compliance" is not seen in the first stage of rehab.

While many variables affect suicidality among teenagers, which item below has been a particularly powerful predictor:

a. a recent parental divorce

b. a transfer to a new school

c. a history of occasional drug use

d. a change in family economic status

a. a recent parental divorce

Family dynamics and the stability of internal structure are the highest predictors of suicidality.

Mrs. W has a long history of alcohol abuse. Though she has made several failed attempts to quit, she is now convinced that alcohol is affecting her heart and liver and she decides to stop drinking. She refuses medical supervision. Several days after deciding to quit, she arrives at the clinic without making an appointment and demands to see her social worker. She is loud and demanding and seems disheveled and uncoordinated. She then abruptly leaves the clinic. The social worker might conclude that Mrs. W :

a. is going through alcohol withdrawal and needs medical attention

b. wants the social worker's help in managing her discomfort

c. is intoxicated

d. may be experiencing delusions

c. is intoxicated

Signs of intoxication include:

Exhibiting signs of irritability and extreme mood swings., Slurred speech, Lack of coordination, and Trouble with motor coordination or an inability to walk properly.

A is wrong: Withdrawal symptoms can include sweating, tremors, sleep problems, rapid heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, hallucinations, anxiety, restlessness, and possibly even seizures

A woman brings her husband to a busy emergency room because he is not feeling well. He dies while there. What should the social worker do?

a. counsel the wife on grief and loss

b. tell the wife that dying is part of life

c. explain to the wife the stages of grief and loss

d. find a room so that the wife can have privacy to deal with her feelings

d. find a room so that the wife can have privacy to deal with her feelings

RU SAFE/ SFAREAFI

B and C ignore the importance of discussing and addressing emotions.

A is wrong because

- We must give clients the respect and privacy to process a sudden death.

-we must allow clients to feel their feelings before jumping into counseling, especially in this hospital setting.

14. Two social workers are in a crowded restaurant when one of the social worker's clients approaches them. What should the social worker do?

a. pretend he doesn't know the client

b. introduce the client as his friend to the other social worker

c. tell the client to leave them alone

d. tell the client he'll call him later

d. tell the client he'll call him later

Always follow the client's lead in public settings and then kindly divert the attention away from communicating in public. Keep client confidentiality without shaming or harming a client's ego.

Who would be most at risk for abusing his/her children?

a. A young, single mother who drinks

b. a man with a history of impulsive behavior

c. a woman who often gets angry with her teenage son

d. a woman who was raised in homeless shelters.

a. A young, single mother who drinks

Intoxication creates higher probabilities to acting out of impulse/ out of control.

B is incorrect because we do not know if the man has worked on his impulsive behavior. Just because this is in his history, does not make him automatically harmful now

C is wrong because anger =/= abuse

D is wrong because homelessness shows no indicator on the personal actions. Homelessness does not increase the likelihood of abuse if there is no past history of harm.

You have been seeing an elderly couple for one month. The 70 year old husband recently had a stroke. The wife tells you that sometimes he hits her. She rolls up her sleeve and shows you large bruises. You should:

a. consider that the stroke caused his violence

b. report elder abuse

c. refer the couple to a doctor before reporting abuse

d. call adult protective services and ask if you should file a report

b. report elder abuse

Duty to protect the vulnerable. ALWAYS act when there are signs of abuse.

A healthy couple has been referred to you because the woman is unable to have orgasms. The doctor that referred them states there are no obvious medical problems. You would first:

a. explain female anatomy

b. begin exploring the couple's relationship

c. find out what the couple has tried thus far to address the problem

d. do a genogram to explore family of origin issues

c. find out what the couple has tried thus far to address the problem

RU SAFE question

A is wrong because

- it is not in our scope of practice

- we have not assessed the situation to understand why this is happening

B may seem correct initially, but this is making A LOT of assumptions... maybe it is not a relationshional issue... we must assess first.

D is wrong because this is not a family origin issue.

Which of the following is an issue that lawmakers may need to decide?

a. Anonymity

b. Privilege

c. Confidentiality

d. Self-determination

b. Privilege

Privileged communication in healthcare refers to communications that include private patient information that is protected by federal, state, and local laws in the US and in other countries.

Privileged communications exist because society values the privacy or purpose of certain relationships. The established privileged communications are those between wife and husband, clergy and communicant, psychotherapist and patient, physician and patient, and attorney and client.

A and C are wrong because -Anonymity and Confidentiality are protected under HIPAA- this is already pre-determined and in the hands of Social Workers to follow.

Self determination is a social work value, not applicable in law.

A man dies and, after hearing of this, a relative living in another state experiences chest pains. Which of the following describes this reaction:

a. Projection

b. Reaction formation

c. Sublimation

d. Introjection

d. Introjection

this is the unconscious adoption of the ideas or attitudes of others.

A social worker is making little progress with a client after 4 weeks of treatment. What might the social worker do?

a. refer the client to another social worker

b. schedule a case consultation

c. continue with treatment, it's too early for progress to occur

d. confront the client about their lack of motivation

b. schedule a case consultation

Case consultations provide a forum for learning about new resources, the criteria and practice of different programs, increasing skills in risk assessment, and making informed decisions within a team

A 40-year-old male client explains that he is seeking care because he suffers from panic attacks. He notes that he gets chills, nausea, dizziness, and experiences fear about once a day. A social worker's FIRST step with this client would be to

1. Teach relaxation therapy

2. Set goals for reduction of anxiety

3. Arrange for a doctor's appointment

4. Assess the client's current situation

3. Arrange for a doctor's appointment

RU SAFE

You are called to evaluate a with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He lives in an assisted living facility, and was brought to the emergency room by his daughter. She had taken him to lunch, and became distressed when he refused to return to the facility. He states he wants to live in his motor home, as he resents the loss of privacy at the facility. His daughter confirms he owns a working, fully self-contained motor home (i.e., stove, shower, refrigerator, etc). He has adequate funds. He plans to park the motor home in a nearby Kampgrounds of America (KOA) campground, where all utilities can be hooked up. He can have food and other supplies delivered. However, it is November and it is unseasonably cold. The doctor confirms that the patient is prone to pneumonia, and the daughter states "he will die if he doesn't return to the facility." The patient refuses to consider any other living situation. In this situat

3. c. Allow the patient to move into his motor home.

Self determination if there is no imminent risk

You have just had your first session with a 24-year-old college student. She is seeing you following the break-up of a two-year relationship, which occurred without warning about six weeks prior to this visit. As she explained it, "He met someone else and just moved on." She has been having trouble sleeping and concentrating on her studies since that time. Today she presents as dysphoric and tearful, but is affectively expressive and responsive to humor and other interactive stimuli. The university she attends is a considerable distance from her family and friends, leaving her with limited support during this difficult time. The most appropriate diagnosis would be:

1. a. Primary insomnia.

2. b. Major depression.

3. c. Adjustment disorder with depressed mood.

4. d. Acute stress disorder.

c. Adjustment disorder with depressed mood. —> struggle with change.

Criteria for this disorder includes a time-limited nature, usually beginning within three months of the stressful event, and lessening within six months-either with removal of the stressor or through new adaptation skills. Adjustment disorder is a "sub-threshold disorder," allowing for early classification of a temporary condition when the clinical picture remains vague. While the patient does have insomnia, it arises from the stressful loss and not as an independent condition. Many of the essential criteria for a major depression are absent (weight loss, psychomotor agitation, blunted affect, etc), although without successful treatment this condition could emerge. The diagnosis of acute stress disorder is not appropriate as the precipitating event did not involve threatened or actual serious injury or death.