Concepts Flashcards
Acronym related to factors affecting life span
GERD- Genetics, exercise, reproduction, diet
What does task-centered practice focus on?
Short-term interventions and specific, actionable goals to address immediate client needs.
What does the strengths-based approach focus on?
Empowering clients by identifying their existing skills, resources, and abilities to address challenges effectively.
When to use involuntary hospitalization?
When a client is at immediate risk of self-harm and refuses a safety plan, this prevents harm and ensures care.
What are common characteristics of an abuse perpetrator (besides being controlling and manipulative)
Low self-esteem and explosive temper
What are the 4 Stages of cultural competency?
Awareness of personal cultural worldview, acceptance of other cultures, developing knowledge of different cultural traditions and practices, and development of cross-cultural communication skills. THEY HAPPEN IN THAT ORDER.
What are the main features of Borderline personality disorder (BPD)?
- INTENSE FEAR OF ABANDONMENT or rejection, often leading to frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. 2. UNSTABLE & INTENSE RELATIONSHIPS characterized by idealizing others one moment and then devaluing them the next. This is often referred to as “splitting.” 3. UNCLEAR / DISTORTED SELF-IMAGE fluctuating self-image and struggle with a sense of identity (unsure about who they are and what they want out of life) 4. IMPULSIVENESS such as reckless driving, unsafe sex, excessive spending, or substance abuse, are common. These behaviors may be attempts to cope with emotional pain or distress. 5. SELF-HARMING such as cutting or suicide threats/attempts (as ways of coping with emotional pain or as a means of gaining attention or control) 6. CHRONIC FEELINGS OF EMPTINESS, being bored, or numb inside, which can contribute to difficulty tolerating being alone or struggling to find a sense of fulfillment. 7. INTENSE, INAPPROPRIATE ANGER, or difficulty controlling anger, which can lead to frequent outbursts or physical confrontations, often in response to perceived slights or feelings of being misunderstood. STRESS-RELATED PARANOIA OR DISSOCIATION- Under stress, individuals with BPD may experience transient paranoia, dissociation, or a feeling of detachment from reality (e.g., feeling as though they are outside their body).
What is a feeling of detachment?
Feeling as though one is outside one’s body
What is the best evidence-based therapeutic intervention for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It reduces self-harming behavior and improves emotional regulation and relationships. Changes are sustained.
What are the key features of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?
- FOCUS ON EMOTIONAL REGULATION (DBT teaches clients skills to manage intense emotions, reduce emotional reactivity, and improve emotional stability). 2. DIALECTICAL PHILOSOPHY (The term “dialectical” refers to the integration of opposites, such as accepting the client as they are while simultaneously pushing for change. This helps balance validation with the need for personal growth. 3. MINDFULNESS techniques (central to DBT helping clients stay grounded in the present moment, reduce impulsivity, and improve self-awareness) 4. DISTRESS TOLERANCE (helps individuals tolerate and cope with emotional distress without resorting to self-destructive behaviors like self-harm or impulsive acts) 5. INTERPERSONAL EFFECTIVENESS (Clients learn skills for improving communication, setting boundaries, and developing healthier, more stable relationships) 6. ACCEPTANCE & CHANGE (accepting the client’s current situation while simultaneously encouraging change in problematic behaviors and patterns) 7. STRUCTURE & COMMITMENT (a combination of individual therapy and group skills training, including phone coaching for clients to use in real-time situations) 8. WEEKLY THERAPY & GROUP SKILLS TRAINING (practical tools for managing emotions and behaviors).
Strategy to address heightened sensitivity to perceived abandonment in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Validation and exploration of their feelings help address emotional distress and strengthen the therapeutic alliance.
What is the ego-supportive approach?
The ego-supportive approach in social work is most closely linked to Ego Psychology, which is a major theory within psychoanalytic theory. Ego Psychology is an offshoot of Sigmund Freud’s original psychoanalytic theory and emphasizes the ego’s role in regulating thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Ego Psychology is a theory that emphasizes the role of the ego in managing emotions, coping with stress, and maintaining a sense of self. This approach aligns with the belief that strengthening the ego—through reinforcement of coping skills, validation, and boosting self-esteem—can improve a client’s ability to navigate life’s challenges and promote psychological well-being.
Key figures in Ego psychology
ANNA FREUD expanded on the concept of the ego and its role in defense mechanisms. Her work on the DEFENSIVE EGO laid the foundation for understanding how the ego protects itself from anxiety and distress. The ego-supportive approach aligns with her work by encouraging adaptive defenses and reinforcing the ego’s functioning. ERIK ERIKSON’s stages of psychosocial development also contribute to the understanding of ego functions. His work emphasized the role of the ego in navigating developmental stages and challenges. The ego-supportive approach draws on his theories of identity formation and ego integrity (Stages 5- Adolescence- 12-18 years old and stage 8- Old Age- 65 onward) encouraging clients to build a stronger, more cohesive self.
What is the ego-supportive approach’s main key feature or goal?
Reinforcing a client’s existing strengths, coping mechanisms, and self-esteem. The goal is to help the client feel validated, capable, and supported in managing stress and emotional or life challenges by building on what they already do well. It focuses on helping clients build a stronger, more stable sense of self by reinforcing their existing strengths and coping abilities and by encouraging self-reliance and empowerment. It’s about supporting the ego—the part of the psyche that helps people manage stress and maintain a sense of self in the face of external pressures. EXAMPLE: Using existing strengths to manage stress.
Differences between psychoanalytic therapy and ego-supportive approach
PSYCHOANALYSIS focuses on uncovering unconscious conflicts, repressed desires, and the deep-seated issues that influence a person’s thoughts and behavior. The goal is to make the unconscious conscious, often through techniques like free association, dream interpretation, and examining defense mechanisms. EGO-SUPPORTIVE APPROACH doesn’t focus on deep unconscious exploration. Instead, it’s about reinforcing the ego’s ability to handle stress and build up a client’s self-esteem without necessarily diving into repressed emotions or unconscious thoughts. It tends to be more focused on the HERE AND NOW, particularly how the client can better manage their emotional states and behaviors in real-time.
Why the Ego-Supportive Approach Doesn’t Focus on the Unconscious
Exploring unconscious motives might challenge the client’s existing defenses or self-concept, but the ego-supportive approach seeks to strengthen the client’s current coping skills and reinforce their sense of self-worth, not necessarily by delving into their unconscious mind.
The ego-supportive approach works from a standpoint of validation, encouraging clients to recognize their strengths and use those strengths to deal with life’s stresses, without necessarily confronting unconscious issues directly.
Ego integrity (Stage 8- 65 and older)
As people age, they look back on their life and evaluate whether they have lived meaningfully and according to their values. A person who has achieved ego integrity feels a sense of fulfillment, acceptance of their life as it was, and a sense of wholeness and peace. They feel that they have lived a good life, regardless of any regrets or challenges. DESPAIR (negative outcome): If individuals feel regret about their life choices or if they perceive their life as unfulfilled or wasted, they may experience despair. This leads to feelings of bitterness, hopelessness, and fear of death, as they are unable to reconcile their past with their expectations. It may relate to identity as a foundation for a meaningful life in adolescence and ego integrity as the wisdom and peace that come with reflecting on a well-lived life in later years.
Solution-focused therapy-definition
SFT is a short-term, goal-oriented therapeutic approach that emphasizes finding solutions to present problems rather than focusing on the problems themselves or exploring their origins in the past. This approach is rooted in the belief that individuals already have the strengths, skills, and resources they need to resolve their issues, and the role of the therapist is to help the client recognize and apply these resources to achieve desired outcomes.
Solution-focused therapy (SFT) key features
- FOCUS ON SOLUTIONS NOT PROBLEMS. SFT shifts the focus from exploring the root causes of issues to identifying practical solutions. It aims to help clients envision their preferred future and develop strategies to achieve that future. 2. HIGHLY GOAL-ORIENTED. Clients and therapists collaboratively set clear, achievable goals that are specific, measurable, and focused on change. 3. STRENGTHS-BASED. The therapist emphasizes the client’s existing strengths, resources, and abilities. The belief is that clients are not defined by their problems and that they can solve their issues. 4. FUTURE-FOCUSED. It encourages clients to think about how they want their lives to be and how they can take steps to make that vision a reality. 5. BRIEF & TIME-LIMITED. Typically 5 to 10 sessions. 6. CLIENT AS THE EXPERT. The therapist’s job is to ask questions that help her tap into their internal resources and identify practical solutions. 7. USE QUESTIONS TO PROMOTE CHANGE. Miracle Question: “If a miracle happened tonight and your problem was solved, what would be different tomorrow?”
Scaling Question: “On a scale of 1 to 10, where would you rate yourself in terms of handling this issue today? What would make it a 1-point increase?”
Exception-Seeking Question: “Can you recall a time when the problem was less intense or didn’t happen at all? What was different then?” 8. FOCUS ON SMALL CHANGES. Achievable changes that can lead to larger transformations over time. The emphasis is on building momentum through incremental progress. 9. COLLABORATION BETWEEN THERAPIST AND CLIENT.
Solution-focused therapy typical questions
Miracle Question: “If a miracle happened tonight and your problem was solved, what would be different tomorrow?”
Scaling Question: “On a scale of 1 to 10, where would you rate yourself in terms of handling this issue today? What would make it a 1-point increase?”
Exception-Seeking Question: “Can you recall a time when the problem was less intense or didn’t happen at all? What was different then?”
SFT is recommended for
- Mild to moderate depression and anxiety 2. Stress and coping issues (manageable steps to improve their situation, develop new ways to handle stress, and increase their sense of control). 3. Relationship issues. 4. Behavioral problems in children and adolescents (especially when addressing behavior issues at school or home. It helps them focus on positive behaviors and the potential for change). 5. Trauma recovery (post-trauma stress, NOT TRAUMA SURVIVORS) by focusing on their strengths and building resilience. 6. Grief & loss. 7. Substance use by helping them identify times they have been successful in avoiding or reducing use, and what small changes they can make to continue their progress. 8. Adjustment disorders- For individuals struggling with major life transitions (e.g., a new job, relocation, divorce), SFT can assist in finding practical solutions to help them adjust and move forward in a positive direction. 9. Chronic illness or pain- by focusing on how they can manage their condition, increase their quality of life, and reduce feelings of helplessness. 10. Crisis situations- when individuals need immediate relief and a sense of hope.
Adjustment disorder- definition
An Adjustment Disorder is a psychological condition characterized by an emotional or behavioral response to a significant life change or stressor that is more intense or prolonged than what would be expected. These responses can interfere with the individual’s ability to function in daily life. The stressor can be a single event (such as a breakup or job loss) or an ongoing situation (like chronic illness or an ongoing difficult relationship). The symptoms typically arise WITHIN 3 MONTHS of the identified stressor and may cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
Adjustment disorders- key features
- Symptoms appear within 3 months of a specific stressor.
- Disproportionate response to the stressor, compared to what might be expected.
- Symptoms may include depression, anxiety, anger, difficulty concentrating, behavioral changes, and social withdrawal.
- Functional impairment in important areas of life, such as work, school, or relationships.
Symptoms of adjustment disorders
Emotional symptoms: sadness, hopelessness, feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, irritability, or anger.
Behavioral symptoms: withdrawal from social situations, difficulty concentrating, engaging in risk-taking behaviors, or performing poorly at work or school.
Physical symptoms: insomnia, headaches, stomach issues, or other stress-related complaints.
Cognitive symptoms: difficulty with decision-making, negative thoughts, or intrusive thoughts related to the stressor.
Types of adjustment disorders
- Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood:
Individuals may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Symptoms can mimic depression, but the cause is tied to a specific stressor. - Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety:
Symptoms include excessive nervousness, worry, apprehension, and fearfulness. The anxiety may interfere with everyday activities, such as work or social interactions. - Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Anxiety and Depressed Mood:
A combination of symptoms of both anxiety and depression. Individuals may feel anxious and overwhelmed while also feeling down or hopeless. - Adjustment Disorder with Disturbance of Conduct:
Individuals may engage in behaviors such as aggression, rule-breaking, or destructive actions in response to stress. This can include acting out at school or work or getting into legal trouble. - Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Disturbance of Emotions and Conduct:
A combination of emotional symptoms (such as depression or anxiety) and behavioral symptoms (such as aggression or defiance). This can manifest as both emotional dysregulation and conduct problems. - Adjustment Disorder Unspecified
Common stressors linked to Adjustment disorders
Adjustment disorders can be triggered by any number of stressors, such as:
Personal loss (e.g., death of a loved one, breakup, divorce)
Life transitions (e.g., moving to a new city, retirement, graduation)
Work or academic stress (e.g., job loss, failure, work conflicts)
Health problems (e.g., diagnosis of a chronic illness, injury)
Family problems (e.g., parental separation, conflict within family)
Financial difficulties
Social stressors (e.g., bullying, social rejection)
Adjustment disorders- Summary tx-features
An Adjustment Disorder is a reaction to a significant life stressor, and it can manifest in emotional, behavioral, or cognitive ways. Treatment often involves psychotherapy, coping strategies, and, in some cases, medication to help the individual manage the emotional distress and return to functioning. The key feature of this condition is that it is triggered by a stressor, and the symptoms are disproportionate to the stressor, causing functional impairment or significant distress.
Adjustment disorder with depressed mood vs Major depressive episode (MDD)
While Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood (Symptoms of depression or anxiety -or both- arise within 3 months of an identifiable stressor. They last up to 6 months and resolve once the stressor is processed- Short-term therapy, stress management) shares similarities with Major Depressive Disorder (At least 5 symptoms must be present during the same 2-week period: i.e. depressed mood, anhedonia, significant weight change, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, suicidal ideation, etc. causing clinically significant distress)., it is distinguished primarily by its clear link to a specific life stressor and its shorter duration. The symptoms of adjustment disorder are generally less severe and more temporary than those of major depression, and the individual’s ability to function is less impaired. However, if the symptoms persist or become more severe over time, or if the person has a history of depression, further evaluation may be needed to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
What is Ethical Standard 2.06: “Resolving Ethical Issues” about?
The ethical standard in the NASW Code of Ethics encourages resolving ethical concerns at the lowest level possible before escalating them. This section highlights the importance of addressing ethical concerns at the individual or organizational level, using informal and internal methods, such as discussing the issue with supervisors, colleagues, or other appropriate persons within the organization. Escalating the issue should only occur if these efforts are unsuccessful or if the situation is too severe to be handled informally.
This standard is designed to ensure that ethical issues are handled constructively and that the integrity of the social work practice is maintained without unnecessary conflict or formal intervention unless absolutely necessary.
Is a social worker is allowed to break confidentiality if a client reveals she plans to commit a nonviolent illegal act?
Social workers are ethically bound to maintain confidentiality unless there is a serious and imminent risk of harm. Example: If the act could lead to harmful consequences (such as financial or emotional damage to the client or others), the social worker might have a duty to take action. OR If the social worker believes that the act could lead to significant legal or personal consequences for the client (e.g., imprisonment), it might be necessary to intervene to prevent harm.
Nonviolent illegal acts may not necessarily require breaking confidentiality, but if the act involves significant potential harm (to the client or others), it may be necessary to intervene.
Consultation with supervisors, colleagues, or legal experts is important when determining whether to break confidentiality.
State laws and court orders may also dictate when breaking confidentiality is required.
What does “establishing” group rules might imply?
“Establish” can also refer to introducing or implementing rules at any point during the group work process, even if they were not clearly defined at the start.
What to do when a client presents both emotional and behavioral concerns?
- Address emotional distress or hopelessness first, using a strengths-based approach.
- Shift to problem-solving or trigger identification later, once the client feels more stable and supported.
About sorting obstacles and choosing “best support”
When faced with choices, always ask: What is preventing the client from moving forward right now? Addressing that obstacle is often the “best support.”
Interventions to manage dissociation and flashbacks
Grounding techniques as they help clients stay in the present and regain a sense of control during distressing episodes.
Other interventions for dissociation, flashbacks and trauma (besides grounding techniques)
These interventions focus on both stabilization (to help clients manage symptoms in the present) and processing (to help clients address the trauma): 1. TF-CBT (helps clients reframe distorted thoughts about the trauma, process emotions, and develop healthier coping strategies. It also includes gradual exposure to trauma-related memories in a safe environment, which can help reduce avoidance behaviors and distressing flashbacks) 2. EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION & REPROCESSING (EMDR). EMDR is a therapeutic technique that integrates bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements) to help process traumatic memories to reduce the emotional charge. 3. DBT emphasizes mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. 4. SOMATIC EXPERIENCING is a body-oriented therapy designed to address the physiological effects of trauma. It is based on the understanding that trauma can become “stuck” in the body and manifest as physical symptoms. 5. MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION (MBSR) is a structured program that teaches mindfulness meditation and awareness to reduce stress and anxiety. It helps clients stay present and grounded, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience dissociation. 6. NARRATIVE THERAPY involves helping clients reframe and reinterpret their life story in a way that empowers them. Clients are encouraged to view themselves as the authors of their own lives and separate their identity from the trauma. 7. ATTACHMENT-BASED THERAPY focuses on healing relational wounds caused by early attachment disruptions. This therapy is particularly helpful for individuals who experienced childhood trauma or neglect. It helps clients form secure, trusting relationships with the therapist, which can help reduce dissociative symptoms. 8. COMPASSION-FOCUSED THERAPY focuses on developing self-compassion and overcoming feelings of shame and self-criticism. It integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness and compassion practices.
Summary of interventions for dissociation, trauma and flashbacks
- Grounding techniques (e.g., deep breathing, mindfulness) can help clients stay present and manage dissociation.
- Cognitive-based therapies (CBT, TF-CBT, DBT) focus on reframing trauma-related thoughts and behaviors.
- Body-oriented therapies (Somatic Experiencing, EMDR) address trauma stored in the body and help clients process traumatic memories.
- Mindfulness practices (MBSR, CFT) promote self-awareness and reduce emotional reactivity.
- Insight-oriented therapies (Psychodynamic, Narrative Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy) focus on the emotional and relational roots of trauma.
About confidentiality, when is understanding the context and building rapport the priority over clarifying or reinforcing confidentiality?
In Low-stake scenarios (skipping school, using the neighbor’s car, suicidal ideation without a clear plan or intent, or problems at work)
About confidentiality, when is reinforcing confidentiality the priority over understanding the context and building rapport?
In high-stake scenarios (potential harm to a child, intent to harm someone, a minor disclosing sexual activity, a client admitting to Substance Use During Pregnancy, financial fraud or past or present criminal activity) UNLESS there is a safety concern. SAFETY AND LEGAL OBLIGATIONS COME FIRST.
In HIGH STAKES situations or scenarios
Safety and legal obligations take precedence. Reiterating confidentiality limits or addressing immediate risk is often the first step.
In LOW STAKES situations or scenarios
Building rapport and exploring the client’s feelings or circumstances comes first, as there’s no immediate danger or legal mandate.
What are the stages of addiction?
- Experimentation
Description: The individual tries a substance out of curiosity, peer pressure, or a desire for pleasure or stress relief. Use is occasional and not yet problematic. - Regular Use
Description: The individual begins using the substance more frequently, often in social settings or as a coping mechanism for stress. - Risky Use
Description: Substance use starts to negatively impact the individual’s life, such as work, school, or relationships. There is often denial about the severity of the problem. - Dependence
Description: The individual develops tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect) and experiences withdrawal symptoms when not using. Substance use becomes a central focus of their life. - Addiction (Active Use)
Description: The individual is fully dependent on the substance, with significant negative consequences in multiple areas of life. They may prioritize substance use over everything else, including relationships. - Recovery
Description: The individual seeks help and begins the process of recovery, which may involve therapy, support groups, or rehabilitation programs. - Relapse (if it occurs)
Description: The individual returns to substance use after a period of abstinence, which is common in recovery but not inevitable.
What does Adult Protective Services (APS) do?
APS is responsible for investigating and responding to allegations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults:
* Elderly individuals (typically 60+ years old) who cannot protect themselves due to age or infirmity.
* Adults with physical, cognitive, or mental disabilities that impair their ability to care for themselves or make decisions.
Signs of Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation (APS)
- Physical abuse: Unexplained bruises, burns, injuries, or signs of restraint.
- Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, dehydration, or unsafe living conditions.
- Emotional abuse: Signs of fear, withdrawal, or distress around a caregiver.
- Exploitation: Missing funds, sudden financial difficulties, or unauthorized transactions.
- Self-neglect: A vulnerable adult’s inability to provide for their own basic needs or safety.
Threshold for Self-Neglect (APS)
For APS to get involved, there typically needs to be evidence that the client is unable or unwilling to care for themselves to a degree that poses significant, immediate risk. This client has expressed awareness of their situation and is attempting to manage it.
Can a risk assessment for suicidality be conducted within a group context/therapy session?
YES
The main goal when dealing with vulnerable adults
Respect/support self-determination and autonomy- using the least restrictive and controlling measures
What is “process” in SW?
Focusing on the dynamic/interactions between the client and the social worker
Family reactions to a relative’s alcohol addiction
Disengage from that person first and then assume her responsibilities
CBT and behavioral approaches to impulsivity
Teaching strategies to control impulsive urges (mindfulness, delay of gratification), recognize patterns
What is the core symptom of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) that leads to interpersonal difficulties?
Impulsivity. This behavior often manifests in self-destructive ways (e.g., substance abuse, reckless driving, driving under the influence, reckless sexual activity)
Intervention for impulsive behaviors such as frequent job changes, spontaneous travel plans, and poor financial decisions. (The client reports feeling “bored” when life becomes routine and tends to act without thinking about long-term consequences).
Mindfulness-based interventions help individuals become more aware of their impulses and create space to make more thoughtful decisions. This approach can enhance emotional regulation and decrease impulsivity.
Which technique is most useful to manage impulsive anger?
Cognitive restructuring helps individuals identify and modify maladaptive thought patterns, leading to better emotional regulation and reduced impulsivity. In the case of anger, this approach can help the client manage their reactions more effectively.
What is the most important factor to consider when assessing a client’s capacity to CHANGE impulsive behavior?
- Motivation and READINESS for change! Clients with impulsive behaviors may be ambivalent or resistant to change, especially if they derive immediate gratification or relief from impulsive actions.
Check the STAGES OF CHANGE and self-determination (A client’s intrinsic motivation (internal desire to change) is often more effective than external pressure) - Insight and Self-Awareness (Understanding of impulsivity and cognitive factors- distorted thinking patterns…)
- Emotional regulation skills
- Social Support and Environmental Factors
- History of Previous Change Efforts
- Comorbid Mental Health Issues
Which disorders is impulsivity a core symptom?
- Borderline Personality Disorder (PPD)
- ADHD
- Substance use
- Conduct disorder
- Intermittent explosive Disorder (IED)
- Bipolar disorder (manic episode)
- Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)
- Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD)- Less of a feature
- Eating disorders (e.g., Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia Nervosa)
- Obsessive Compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Sexual Impulsivity / Hypersexuality
What SW skill communicates acceptance to clients?
Non-judgemental statements (encourage them to speak openly without concern about the social worker’s opinion)
What SW skill communicates support (not acceptance) to clients?
Demonstrating concern and using normalizing statements
What is the difference between Impulsivity and Compulsivity in OCD?
While both involve acting in ways that seem automatic or driven by external forces (obsessions), the key difference lies in the underlying motivation:
COMPULSIVITY is typically driven by a desire to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad from happening. Even though the behavior might seem repetitive or excessive, it is often performed with a sense of relief after the compulsion is completed.
IMPULSIVITY, on the other hand, can involve acting in a more reactive, less planned way that may not necessarily be driven by the same anxiety-reducing need. In OCD, compulsive acts might feel impulsive in nature because they occur in response to overwhelming and uncontrollable internal pressures (obsessions), leading the person to act quickly to neutralize the distress.
What is the best evidence-based therapeutic intervention for Impulsivity in OCD?
CBT. especially a subtype known as 1. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is considered the most effective treatment for OCD. ERP involves exposing the individual to situations that trigger their obsessions and preventing them from engaging in the compulsive (impulsive) behaviors.
2. Mindfulness-Based Techniques: Mindfulness strategies can help individuals with OCD become more aware of their impulses and develop a greater ability to tolerate distress without acting on the compulsive urges.
3. Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), commonly used to treat OCD, can help reduce the intensity of both obsessive thoughts and impulsive behaviors. Medications may be used in conjunction with therapy to enhance results.
Impulsive behaviors in OCD are usually performed to avoid distress, while compulsive behaviors are performed to ensure that a feared event does not happen. True or false?
True
Compulsivity
Repetitive actions or mental acts performed to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event, typically driven by obsessive thoughts. (repetitive actions or rituals that are performed in response to obsessive thoughts, aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing harm)
Impulsivity
Sudden, unplanned actions often driven by internal urges, typically without considering the consequences or with minimal regard for the future. (Immediate, unplanned urge to act in response to anxiety, without necessarily thinking it through or fully controlling the urge).
What are the functions of supervision?
Administrative, educational, supportive, evaluative, and professional development (SW)
What is the educational function of supervision?
Providing the staff members with feedback, guidance, support, and training
During an initial assessment, a social worker uses open-ended questions and reflects back the client’s responses to clarify meaning. This technique is primarily intended to:
Build rapport and trust
Which approach to intervention planning emphasizes finding practical solutions rather than goal-setting collaboratively?
Solution-focused planning
Which approach to intervention planning focuses on utilizing the client’s strengths to foster resilience (not just about active participation in setting goals)?
Strengths-based planning
Which approach to intervention planning addresses immediate concerns and may not emphasize client participation in the same way as client-centered planning?
Crisis intervention planning
Person in the environment (PIE) approach
is more focused on individuals and their immediate and broader environments and how these contexts influence their behavior, emotions, and functioning.
o PIE often leads to the identification of barriers and resources in the client’s environment (e.g., financial difficulties, lack of social support, or access to health care) that may be influencing their well-being.
o It is primarily a tool used for assessment and intervention in social work
Ecological approach
is used to assess individuals, families, communities, and even larger social systems (e.g., neighborhoods, cities).
o It looks at multiple levels of systems (e.g., microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, and macrosystem)
Which planning approach helps clients identify specific triggers and develop coping strategies?
Trauma-informed care
Key intervention for Bipolar manic episode
Medication. During a manic episode, the social worker should prioritize psychoeducation about bipolar disorder, focusing on medication adherence and recognizing signs of mania.
Technique to help client identify and resolve barriers to change
Motivational interviewing
What is racial typecasting?
the practice of consistently casting actors in roles that are based on racial stereotypes, meaning actors of color are frequently limited to playing characters that reinforce preconceived notions about their ethnicity, often leading to limited opportunities and perpetuating harmful stereotypes in media representation
What is a double-blind research design about?
a study where neither the participants nor the researchers know which group (experimental or control) each participant belongs to, effectively eliminating potential bias from both the study subjects and the researchers conducting the experiment; this is considered the gold standard for minimizing bias in clinical trials, especially when testing new treatments or interventions.
What type of research design is considered the gold standard for minimizing bias in clinical trials, especially when testing new treatments or interventions?
Double-blind research design
What is atavism in social sciences?
It is the tendency of reversion. For example, people in the modern era reverting to the ways of thinking and acting of a former time.
What is being assessed when observing the degree of openness with which the client discusses concerns
Emotional openness
What is being assessed when observing the number of times the client requests clarification
Cognitive process
Congruence between verbal and nonverbal behaviors of the client
Emotional current state
