Individual Practice SWES Practice Test

In joint or multiple interviews, what should a social worker focus on?

1. Individual client histories

2. The interaction between participants

3. Setting goals for each client

4. Assessing family dynamics

The correct answer is: The interaction between participants

In joint or multiple interviews, the primary focus for a social worker should be on the interaction between participants. This approach recognizes that the dynamics of the group can significantly influence individual behaviors and attitudes. Understanding how participants communicate, support, or conflict with each other provides essential insights into their relationships and underlying issues. By observing these interactions, the social worker can identify patterns of communication, power dynamics, and emotional responses that may not be evident in individual interviews. This focus fosters a collaborative environment where participants can express their thoughts and feelings in relation to each other, which can be crucial for both understanding the group dynamic and facilitating effective interventions. While individual client histories, setting goals, and assessing family dynamics are important aspects of social work, the richness of joint interviews lies in the relational aspect, making the interaction between participants a critical area of focus.