Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

What is the presenting problem for a young father who feels depressed and unmotivated after the death of his wife?

1. Loss of employment

2. Adjustment issues

3. Child-rearing difficulties

4. Presenting problem

The correct answer is: Presenting problem

The situation described involves a young father grappling with feelings of depression and lack of motivation following the death of his wife. This context highlights his emotional state and the challenges he faces in dealing with loss, rather than a specific external factor like job loss or child-rearing difficulties. The concept of a presenting problem encompasses the issues a client brings to a social worker or therapist. In this case, the young father's depression and lack of motivation are direct responses to a significant life event—the death of his partner. The presenting problem typically relates to how the individual is coping with their current emotional and psychological struggles. It’s fundamentally concerned with the individual's emotional response and their ability to function after a traumatic event, which centralizes the need for support and intervention. The other options, such as loss of employment, adjustment issues, or child-rearing difficulties, could be related areas of concern but are not the primary focus in this scenario. They may manifest later as the father navigates his grief and responsibilities, but the immediate issue to address is his emotional well-being following the loss of his wife.