Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

What is the first step a social worker should take when a client expresses anger about a partner's affair?

1. Ask questions to clarify the client's statements.

2. Remind the client about the limits of confidentiality.

3. Notify the authorities and the partner according to Tarasoff law.

4. Assess the client for history of violent behavior.

The correct answer is: Ask questions to clarify the client's statements.

The first step a social worker should take when a client expresses anger about a partner's affair is to ask questions to clarify the client's statements. This approach is essential because it allows the social worker to gain a better understanding of the client's feelings, thoughts, and the specific circumstances surrounding their anger. By engaging in open dialogue and active listening, the social worker can validate the client's emotions and ensure that they feel heard and understood. This process is crucial in building a trusting therapeutic relationship and guiding the subsequent steps in addressing the client's concerns effectively. Clarifying the client's statements provides the social worker with important context regarding the client's experiences and needs. This foundational understanding enables the social worker to explore more in-depth issues, such as trust, betrayal, and emotional responses, thereby facilitating a more tailored approach to support the client. Promptly addressing anger through exploration rather than immediately moving to other actions helps ensure that the client's emotional state is acknowledged and processed appropriately.