ASWB Clinical Social Worker 4

Question 1

A client presents with persistent low mood, hypersomnia, increased appetite, and feelings of worthlessness lasting three weeks. Which diagnosis is most consistent with these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Major Depressive Disorder

Answer

The symptom cluster meeting DSM-5 criteria—five or more symptoms lasting at least two weeks—is consistent with Major Depressive Disorder.

Question 2

In systems theory, which concept refers to a family's tendency to return to a prior state of equilibrium after disruption?

Accepted Answer

Homeostasis

Answer

Homeostasis describes a system's drive to maintain stability and resist change, even when change would be beneficial.

Question 3

A social worker using structural family therapy would most likely intervene by:

Accepted Answer

Restructuring boundaries and subsystems within the family

Answer

Structural family therapy (Minuchin) focuses on reorganizing family structure, boundaries, and hierarchies.

Question 4

During an intake, a client discloses active suicidal ideation with a plan and access to means. The social worker should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Ensure immediate safety and arrange for the highest appropriate level of care

Answer

Active suicidal ideation with plan and means requires immediate safety intervention and likely hospitalization.

Question 5

Which attachment style is characterized by an infant who shows distress when a caregiver leaves but is not comforted upon return?

Accepted Answer

Anxious-ambivalent (resistant) attachment

Answer

Anxious-ambivalent attachment involves hyperactivation of the attachment system, leading to distress at separation and inability to be soothed on reunion.

ASWB - Association of Social Work Boards Practice Test

ASWB - Association of Social Work Boards Practice Test

ASWB Clinical Social Worker 4