Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

What is the term for a social worker expressing interest and understanding in a client interview?

1. Direct influence.

2. Transactional analysis.

3. Sustainment.

4. Person-situation reflection.

The correct answer is: Sustainment.

The correct term for a social worker expressing interest and understanding in a client interview is sustainment. This concept refers to the social worker's ability to actively engage with clients, showing that they value their perspectives and experiences. Sustainment fosters a strong therapeutic alliance, allowing clients to feel heard and supported, which is crucial for effective interventions. In this context, sustainment goes beyond mere active listening; it encompasses a genuine commitment to understanding the client's situation and collaborating towards their goals. When social workers practice sustainment, they create a safe and trusting environment that encourages clients to openly share their thoughts and feelings. The other terms do not quite capture this specific aspect of interaction. Direct influence pertains to an approach where the social worker actively guides or shapes the client's decisions, which differs from the empathetic connection established through sustainment. Transactional analysis is a psychological theory focusing on communication and relationships, but it does not specifically address the act of showing empathy and understanding in an interview setting. Person-situation reflection suggests a consideration of both the individual and their circumstances, but it does not specifically highlight the nuanced interaction of expressing interest and understanding as clearly as sustainment does.