Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

With a client exhibiting narcissistic traits, the therapist should balance support with?

1. Neutrality

2. Empathy

3. Helping the client to see others' perspectives

4. Directing the client to understand her behavior

The correct answer is: Helping the client to see others' perspectives

In the context of working with a client exhibiting narcissistic traits, balancing support with helping the client to see others' perspectives is essential. Clients with narcissistic tendencies often struggle with empathy and may have a distorted view of themselves and their relationships with others. By gently guiding them to recognize and understand how their behavior impacts the feelings and experiences of people around them, therapists can foster greater self-awareness and encourage more empathetic interactions. This approach helps clients in recognizing the validity of others' emotions while also providing a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood. The goal is to promote insight and reflection, which are critical for personal growth and can lead to healthier relational dynamics. Emphasizing perspective-taking not only aids in the development of empathy but also challenges the often self-centered worldview of narcissistic individuals, providing a pathway toward more adaptive behaviors and emotional balance.