Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

Who bears the primary responsibility for following through on decisions regarding treatment in social work?

1. The social worker

2. The client's family

3. The treatment team

4. The client

The correct answer is: The client

In social work, the primary responsibility for following through on decisions regarding treatment lies with the client. This is rooted in the principles of empowerment and self-determination, which emphasize the client's active role in their own care and decision-making process. Social workers facilitate, guide, and support clients in their treatment, but ultimately, the client's agency in deciding what course of action to take is paramount. The client is expected to be an active participant in their treatment plan, as they are the ones who will implement the decisions made regarding their care. This involvement helps ensure that the plans resonate with the client's values, needs, and preferences, which can lead to better outcomes in their treatment journey. Additionally, fostering independence and promoting the client's ability to make informed choices is a fundamental aspect of effective social work practice. While the social worker, the client's family, and the treatment team all play significant roles in supporting the client, the responsibility for carrying out treatment decisions primarily rests with the client, as they are ultimately the ones affected by these decisions in their lives.