Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

In a residential treatment center, when a child has a violent tantrum, what is the social worker most likely to do?

1. Call for backup staff

2. Go to the dining hall and help calm the child

3. Observe from a distance

4. Ignore the behavior

The correct answer is: Go to the dining hall and help calm the child

In a residential treatment center setting, when a child exhibits a violent tantrum, the social worker is most likely to take immediate action to address the situation, which involves going to the dining hall and helping to calm the child. This approach is consistent with the social work principles of intervention and support during a crisis. Directly intervening allows the social worker to assess the child's immediate needs and emotions. It also helps to ensure the safety of the child and others present while providing an opportunity for de-escalation. The social worker can employ techniques such as active listening, validation of feelings, and engaging the child in calming strategies, ultimately guiding them toward a more regulated state. This responsive engagement not only addresses the immediate behavior but fosters a trusting relationship between the child and the staff, reinforcing the therapeutic environment of the center. This proactive stance is vital in the context of residential treatment, where managing crises effectively can help promote emotional and behavioral stability for all residents.