Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

How should a social worker approach a married woman who discusses her husband's compulsive gambling in therapy?

1. Encourage her to confront her husband

2. Focus on her feelings and behaviors

3. Suggest she seek couple's therapy

4. Recommend financial counseling

The correct answer is: Focus on her feelings and behaviors

Focusing on the married woman's feelings and behaviors is essential because it allows for a deeper exploration of her emotional health and coping mechanisms. Addressing her experience of her husband's compulsive gambling can help her articulate any distress, frustration, or anxiety she may be feeling as a result of his actions. This client-centered approach empowers her to process her emotions, reflect on her needs, and explore her responses to the situation. By centering the conversation on her rather than directly addressing her husband's gambling, the social worker provides a safe space for her to express personal impacts, evaluate her feelings about the relationship, and consider ways to manage stressors in her life. This method aligns with ethical principles in social work, emphasizing the importance of the client’s autonomy and therapeutic alliance. It also facilitates a focus on personal growth and self-care, which can be pivotal for someone dealing with the consequences of a partner’s unhealthy behaviors. This approach can lead to tangible changes in her life, equipping her with tools to navigate the challenges posed by her husband's compulsive gambling while prioritizing her well-being.