Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

In a brief treatment model, how should a social worker form their opinion on a client's problem?

1. Within three or four contacts.

2. During the first interview.

3. As progress is made, being flexible to change opinions.

4. After each interview.

The correct answer is: As progress is made, being flexible to change opinions.

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of ongoing assessment and flexibility in a brief treatment model. A social worker should approach forming an opinion about a client's problem as a dynamic process that develops over time. This means that as sessions progress, new information may emerge that can influence the understanding of the client's situation. In this approach, the social worker remains open to changing their perspective based on the client's evolving needs and the information gathered throughout the therapeutic process. This flexibility is crucial as it allows for a more accurate and comprehensive view of the client's issues, leading to more effective interventions and support. The other approaches, such as forming an opinion during the first interview or after each interview, suggest a more static understanding that does not allow for growth or adaptation. While initial impressions and assessments can be valuable, they should not be seen as definitive. The nature of brief therapy relies on continual engagement with the client, making ongoing evaluation and adjustment of opinions essential for effective practice.