Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

How should a social worker initially approach a chronically depressed client with limited social skills?

1. Provide direct advice and solutions

2. Encourage interaction and offer a chance to ventilate

3. Engage him in group therapy immediately

4. Focus solely on work-related issues

The correct answer is: Encourage interaction and offer a chance to ventilate

The most effective initial approach for a social worker with a chronically depressed client who has limited social skills is to encourage interaction and offer a chance to ventilate. This approach is critical because it creates a safe space for the client to express their feelings and thoughts without the pressure of immediate judgment or the need for solutions. By encouraging the client to articulate their experiences, the social worker can help build trust and rapport, essential components of a therapeutic relationship. Offering a chance to ventilate allows the client to feel heard and validated, which can be particularly important in cases of chronic depression where clients may feel isolated or misunderstood. It also provides an opportunity for the social worker to assess the client’s mental state and specific needs more effectively. This initial interaction can serve as an important foundation for further interventions, enabling the social worker to tailor their approach moving forward based on the client’s unique circumstances and responses. Building social skills can be a gradual process, and starting with open dialogue is a non-intrusive way to facilitate communication, promote engagement, and help the client feel more at ease in the therapeutic setting.