Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

A client expresses difficulty concentrating due to excessive video gaming. What should the social worker FIRST assess?

1. How the content of the games contributes to the client's preoccupation.

2. The specific ways in which the client's life is impacted.

3. The quality of the client's interpersonal relationships.

4. The frequency and duration of his game playing.

The correct answer is: The specific ways in which the client's life is impacted.

The focus on assessing the specific ways in which the client's life is impacted is essential because it provides a holistic view of the issue at hand. Understanding how excessive video gaming affects various facets of the client's life—such as their academic performance, work commitments, social interactions, and overall well-being—gives the social worker insight into the seriousness of the problem. This assessment helps in identifying the extent of the client's struggles and establishes a foundation for developing an appropriate intervention plan. By prioritizing this assessment, the social worker can tailor their approach to address the most pressing concerns in the client's life, ultimately leading to more effective strategies for managing gaming-related difficulties. This method aligns with person-centered practice, emphasizing the individual's unique experiences and challenges.