Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

In the early phase of work with an acutely depressed client, the social worker is expected to be primarily?

1. Supportive

2. Directive

3. Evaluative

4. Interpretive

The correct answer is: Supportive

In the early phase of work with an acutely depressed client, being primarily supportive is crucial. This phase is often characterized by the client's feelings of hopelessness, despair, and an overwhelming sense of emotional burden. A supportive approach helps to create a safe and trusting environment where the client feels heard and understood. It allows the client to express their feelings without fear of judgment. Supportive interventions can include active listening, demonstrating empathy, validating the client's experiences, and providing reassurance. The goal is to foster a therapeutic alliance and encourage the client to express their emotions and thoughts openly. This foundational support is essential for establishing rapport and can help to alleviate some of the client's immediate distress. In contrast, being overly directive or evaluative may be overwhelming for a client who is already feeling vulnerable, as it can come off as prescriptive rather than supportive. Interpretive approaches, which involve delving into the meanings behind a client's thoughts and behaviors, may also be more appropriate in later stages of treatment when the client is more stable and ready to engage in that depth of exploration. Thus, prioritizing support in the initial phase is vital for building a solid therapeutic relationship and facilitating further treatment.