Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

What technique is most appropriate for a new client who is showing signs of decompensation?

1. Confrontation

2. Ego support

3. Ventilation

4. Operant conditioning

The correct answer is: Ego support

When dealing with a new client who is exhibiting signs of decompensation, providing ego support is crucial. Ego support involves offering reassurance and validation to help the client stabilize their emotional state and regain a sense of self-worth and confidence. This technique emphasizes understanding and empathy, encouraging the client to express their feelings while also fostering a supportive environment. Clients in a state of decompensation may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unable to cope with stressors, making it essential for the clinician to create a safe space that promotes emotional resilience. By providing ego support, the clinician helps the client to feel heard and understood, which is vital in times of distress and can facilitate a therapeutic alliance. In contrast, techniques such as confrontation, while potentially useful in certain therapeutic contexts, may not be suitable for someone who is already struggling emotionally. Ventilation, or simply venting one’s feelings, can help some clients, but may not address the underlying issues effectively for someone in crisis. Operant conditioning, which involves modifying behavior through reinforcement, typically requires a more stable emotional state to be effective and is better suited for situations where behavior change is the primary goal rather than emotional support. Thus, ego support stands out as the most appropriate technique for someone facing decompensation,