Individual Practice SWES Practice Test

What initial approach should a social worker take with a passive client like Mr. C?

1. Provide structured activities

2. Encourage interaction and ventilation

3. Introduce cognitive behavioral techniques

4. Focus on medication management

The correct answer is: Encourage interaction and ventilation

For a passive client like Mr. C, encouraging interaction and ventilation is an effective initial approach. This involves creating a supportive and safe environment where the client feels comfortable expressing thoughts and emotions. Passive clients may struggle with assertiveness and expressing their needs or feelings; therefore, fostering open communication can help them begin to articulate their experiences. By encouraging interaction, the social worker can help Mr. C engage more actively in the therapeutic process. It provides an opportunity for him to explore his feelings, which is crucial for building trust and rapport. This approach helps in addressing the underlying issues that contribute to his passivity, promoting a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy. In contrast, providing structured activities could overwhelm a passive client who may not be ready or willing to participate actively. Introducing cognitive behavioral techniques might be premature if the client is not yet comfortable engaging in conversation. Focusing solely on medication management may overlook the importance of emotional expression and the therapeutic relationship itself. Hence, fostering dialogue is a foundational step that can pave the way for further interventions.