ASWB Masters Assessment 4

Question 1

A social worker uses the PHQ-9 with a new client. A score of 15 indicates:

Accepted Answer

Moderately severe depression

Answer

On the PHQ-9, a score of 15–19 indicates moderately severe depression, prompting active treatment planning.

Question 2

A client presents with impulsivity, unstable relationships, chronic feelings of emptiness, and fear of abandonment. These features are MOST consistent with which personality disorder?

Accepted Answer

Borderline personality disorder

Answer

Borderline personality disorder is characterized by instability in relationships, self-image, and affect, along with marked impulsivity and fear of abandonment.

Question 3

During an assessment, a client reports drinking alcohol to 'calm nerves.' This statement MOST likely indicates a need to assess for:

Accepted Answer

Co-occurring anxiety and alcohol use disorder

Answer

Using alcohol to manage anxiety suggests potential co-occurring anxiety and alcohol use disorders, which commonly present together.

Question 4

A social worker is assessing a veteran who served in combat. The client reports nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance of crowded spaces, and emotional numbing for the past two months. The MOST likely diagnosis to explore is:

Accepted Answer

Post-traumatic stress disorder

Answer

PTSD is characterized by intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition/mood, and hyperarousal lasting more than one month following trauma.

Question 5

Which of the following assessment findings would MOST warrant an immediate safety intervention?

Accepted Answer

A client with a specific plan, means, and timeline to end their life

Answer

A specific plan, available means, and stated timeline represent imminent suicide risk requiring immediate intervention.

ASWB - Association of Social Work Boards Practice Test

ASWB - Association of Social Work Boards Practice Test

ASWB Masters Assessment 4