Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

When addressing a young client's conflict with bullying, what is the best FIRST step for the social worker to take?

1. Conduct family therapy sessions.

2. Engage in a dialogue to understand the child's behavior.

3. Contact the school for broader insight.

4. Encourage peer interactions outside of school.

The correct answer is: Contact the school for broader insight.

In situations involving a young client's conflict with bullying, the best first step for a social worker is to engage in a dialogue to understand the child's behavior. This approach allows the social worker to create a safe and open environment where the child can express their feelings and experiences related to the bullying. By listening carefully and asking open-ended questions, the social worker can gain a deeper understanding of the child's perspective, which is crucial for addressing the issue effectively. Understanding the child's behavior involves exploring their emotional responses, coping mechanisms, and any underlying issues that may be contributing to their experience with bullying. This step is essential for developing a rapport and building trust with the young client, which can facilitate more productive discussions about the bullying and potential solutions. While contacting the school for broader insight might seem beneficial, it assumes an understanding of the situation that may not yet be fully developed. Engaging directly with the child first allows the social worker to gather relevant information and personalize their response, ensuring that subsequent actions are informed by the child's own narrative and experiences. This initial step lays the foundation for any further interventions, whether that's working with the family, engaging with school personnel, or encouraging positive peer interactions.