Therapist Development Center Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Focusing on the client's psychosocial functioning is crucial when assessing the impact of sexual abuse on a 15-year-old. This area encompasses various aspects of the client's life, including their emotional well-being, relationships with peers and family, ability to navigate social situations, and overall mental health. Understanding psychosocial functioning provides insight into how the abuse may have affected the teen’s emotional responses, social interactions, and support systems.

In the context of abuse, difficulties in psychosocial functioning can manifest as changes in mood, withdrawal from friends and family, or struggles with academic performance. Additionally, it allows the social worker to identify areas that may require intervention or support, helping tailor a therapeutic approach that addresses the individual needs of the client.

While factors like the client's sexual identity, level of repression, and self-care are relevant in their own right, they are often interconnected with the broader context of psychosocial functioning. Addressing psychosocial aspects ensures a comprehensive understanding of how the trauma may have impacted the adolescent’s daily life and overall development.