Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

What approach should a social worker take when a family's needs are interrelated with a child's disability?

1. Discuss the needs as a group

2. Assess and prioritize those needs with the family

3. Refer them for additional services

4. Engage with service providers directly

The correct answer is: Assess and prioritize those needs with the family

Focusing on assessing and prioritizing the family's needs with them is integral to effective social work practice, especially in contexts involving a child's disability. This approach emphasizes collaboration, ensuring the family feels heard and understood. By engaging the family in the assessment process, the social worker can identify the most pressing needs and develop a tailored plan that reflects the unique circumstances and dynamics of the family. Prioritizing needs allows the social worker to focus on immediate concerns that may be impacting the family's wellbeing, such as access to medical care, educational support, or financial assistance. This step helps to create a structured approach to problem-solving, making it easier for the family to navigate the services available to them. It also empowers the family to participate actively in decision-making regarding their situation, fostering a sense of autonomy and engagement. While discussing the needs as a group is valuable, it may lack the specificity and prioritization necessary for an effective intervention. Additionally, simply referring the family for additional services or engaging with service providers directly does not ensure that a comprehensive understanding of the family's specific needs is achieved. Therefore, prioritizing needs with the family at the forefront leads to a more personalized and effective support plan.