Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

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Prepare for the Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Test with varied questions, each offering hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

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A client displaying a desire to leave his wife while simultaneously wanting to stay is demonstrating what psychological concept?

Confusion
Ambivalence
Denial
Resignation

The correct answer is: Ambivalence

The client’s conflicting emotions about wanting to leave his wife while also wanting to stay highlight the concept of ambivalence. Ambivalence refers to the simultaneous presence of opposing feelings or attitudes toward a person, object, or situation. In this case, the client is experiencing mixed feelings about his relationship, which can create significant emotional turmoil and indecision. This condition is common in interpersonal relationships, especially where complex emotions such as love, resentment, and fear of change exist. Understanding ambivalence is important in a therapeutic context because it allows social workers and therapists to recognize the client's internal conflicts and work through these feelings collaboratively. This helps the client gain clarity and facilitate decision-making processes regarding their relationship and personal feelings. The other concepts, while relevant in different contexts, do not encompass the dual feelings present in this scenario.