MSW Master of Social Work Assessment and Treatment Planning Questions and Answers

Question 1

A social worker is developing a treatment plan for a client who has been struggling with social anxiety.
The social worker and client agree on the goal of 'improving social skills.' Which of the following objectives is written in the MOST effective, S.M.A.R.T. format?

Accepted Answer

Within the next 4 weeks, the client will initiate one conversation with a coworker during lunch, twice per week, to practice communication skills.

Answer

To feel less anxious in social situations.

Answer

To attend more social gatherings and make new friends.

Answer

To understand the root causes of social anxiety and develop better coping mechanisms.

Question 2

A social worker is conducting a biopsychosocial-spiritual assessment with a new client. When exploring the 'biological' component, which of the following areas is MOST important to inquire about?

Accepted Answer

The client's family history of mental health and substance use issues.

Answer

The client's current employment status and work history.

Answer

The client's primary spiritual beliefs and practices.

Answer

The client's history of past romantic relationships.

Question 3

A social worker is screening potential members for a psychotherapy group for adults who have experienced trauma. Which of the following clients would likely be the LEAST appropriate candidate for this type of group therapy?

Accepted Answer

A client who is currently in an acute situational crisis and is actively suicidal.

Answer

A client who is motivated to share their experiences and hear from others.

Answer

A client who sometimes feels anxious when discussing their trauma but has strong coping skills.

Answer

A client who has previously benefited from individual therapy and wants to try a group setting.

Question 4

The Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) is a tool included in the DSM-5 to help practitioners gather information during an assessment. What is the primary purpose of the CFI?

Accepted Answer

To understand how the client's cultural background affects their experience and expression of their problem.

Answer

To determine the client's eligibility for specific social services.

Answer

To provide a definitive psychiatric diagnosis based on cultural factors.

Answer

To assess the client's level of acculturation to mainstream society.

Question 5

During an assessment, a social worker observes that a client demonstrates good reality testing, impulse control, and judgment, especially when faced with stressful situations. The social worker is assessing the client's:

Accepted Answer

Ego functions

Answer

Attachment style

Answer

Moral development

Answer

Cognitive schema

Question 6

A social worker is creating a treatment plan with a client who wants to reduce symptoms of depression. The social worker suggests the objective: 'Client will report a decrease in feelings of hopelessness.' Why is this objective considered weak?

Accepted Answer

The objective is not easily measurable.

Answer

The objective is not relevant to the goal of reducing depression.

Answer

The objective is not time-bound.

Answer

The objective is not achievable for a client with depression.