Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

What is the most beneficial resource for a social worker seeking to understand the causes of eating disorders?

1. An academic textbook in which the criteria for the disorder are explained.

2. Studies in which the causes of the disorder are researched and discussed.

3. Studies in which the trajectory of the disorder are researched.

4. Studies in which outcomes for different treatment modalities are researched.

The correct answer is: Studies in which the causes of the disorder are researched and discussed.

The most beneficial resource for a social worker seeking to understand the causes of eating disorders is studies that focus on the research and discussion of the causes of the disorder. This type of resource provides a deeper insight into the multifaceted nature of eating disorders, including genetic, psychological, environmental, and sociocultural factors that contribute to their development. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for social workers as it informs prevention strategies, risk assessment, and tailored intervention approaches that address not only the symptoms but also the root issues related to the disorders. While an academic textbook that explains the criteria of eating disorders offers a foundational understanding, it may not delve into the complexities of causation. Research on the trajectory of the disorder is valuable too, as it outlines the progression and potential outcomes over time, but it does not directly address why the disorders occur. Similarly, studies that evaluate outcomes of different treatment modalities focus on what works in treatment rather than why the disorders develop in the first place. Therefore, the studies that specifically investigate the causes provide the most relevant and impactful information for social workers in understanding and effectively intervening in cases of eating disorders.