Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

What is the first action a social worker should take for a single mother struggling with basic needs?

1. Encourage the mother to apply for financial assistance.

2. Refer the mother to a job training program.

3. Link the family's specific needs to service options.

4. Suggest the addition of family preservation services.

The correct answer is: Link the family's specific needs to service options.

Linking the family's specific needs to service options is essential because it enables the social worker to assess and understand the unique challenges the single mother is facing. This step involves a thorough evaluation of her situation, identifying the specific basic needs—such as housing, food, healthcare, or childcare—and then aligning those needs with appropriate resources and services available in the community. This approach ensures that the social worker provides tailored support that addresses the mother's immediate concerns effectively. By identifying specific needs first, the social worker can create a more focused and efficient action plan, enhancing the chances of positive outcomes for the mother and her family. This foundational understanding is critical before taking further actions like encouraging assistance applications or referrals to job training, which may not be suitable if the immediate basic needs are not met.