Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

Which statement is NOT a purpose of an initial interview?

1. Establishing therapeutic rapport

2. Obtaining a firm commitment to limit discussions only to specific situations

3. Understanding the client's presenting issues

4. Gathering background information on the client

The correct answer is: Obtaining a firm commitment to limit discussions only to specific situations

The purpose of the initial interview in a social work context is to create a supportive and open environment for the client. One essential aspect of this interview is establishing therapeutic rapport, which helps build trust and encourages the client to share their thoughts and feelings openly. Understanding the client’s presenting issues is another critical aim of this initial interaction. This allows the social worker to grasp the challenges the client is facing and address them effectively in future sessions. Additionally, gathering background information is vital, as it provides context that informs the social worker’s understanding of the client’s situation and how best to proceed. While it is important to maintain focus during therapy sessions, insisting on a firm commitment to limit discussions solely to specific situations is not a typical purpose of the initial interview. Doing so may hinder the exploration of relevant issues and reduce the effectiveness of the therapeutic process, as clients may need to discuss a range of topics, including those that may not seem immediately pertinent. Therefore, this option does not align with the overall goals of an initial interview in social work.