The Social Work Skills Workbook - University of Windsor



The Social Work Skills Workbook

Chapter 1

(Introduction)

1. As you reflect thoughtfully about the content and implications of this chapter, what are your initial reactions to the wide range of challenging roles, responsibility and functions undertaken by professional social workers?

Answer:

My initial reaction to the wide ranges of challenging roles, responsibility and function undertaken by the professional social workers is that it very different from what I had thought. A social worker needs to examine the whole situation of the client to effectively help them but the worker also has to be aware of the many solutions that could come to solving the problem. I anticipated that social worker can easily fix the problem within a couple of section but after reading this chapter I have developed a fuller understanding of what responsibilities and functions of a social workers.

2. Consider the lengthy array of knowledge, values, attitudes, qualities and abilities identified as essential for effective social workers. Which of these will be the most challenging for you? Why?

Answer:

The most challenging of the skills discussed above for me would most definitely be that of authenticity. I will find it difficult to “relate to others personally” within certain situations. Those individual who have raped or molested I hold much digest for and to be genuinely authentic would be very difficult. I have a strong desire to help people but it will be very hard for me to deal with these individuals but I am willing to work hard in changing this attitude.

3. Anticipate that you will need to commit several hours of focused study and practice each week in order to learn the skills addressed in this book. What will you need to do in order to ensure that you have the necessary time and motivation?

Answer:

To ensure that I will develop my skills as a social worker I will commit several hours on practicing the skills with family and friend and use the different stratigies to help them in their lives. I will attempt to acquire certain skill from my placement through supervision by my field instructor and through the different cases and individuals that I will meet. I will ensure that I have time because I will use these skill in every area of my life which will in turn will motivate me to continue my quest to help those in need because I will be able to see the results through my school work, my placement experience and my daily life. This will encourage me to strive for the best result possible which will help more than just me but all those around me.

Chapter 2 (Professional Integrity)

Exercise 2-1 Integrity

1. What does the professional integrity mean to you and how does personal integrity relate to professional integrity?

Answer:

Professional integrity means to be honest towards the client. Co-worker, supervisor etc. It is being able to keep promises and commitments to those around you. Profession and personal integrity relates to each other because in each of these aspect you need to hold yourself to a high standard of morality in your life professional and personally but also you need to live your life honourably.

2. Would a social worker student ever be justified in lying to a professor? Would a social worker ever be justified in lying to a supervisor? A client? A judge?

Answer:

If you lie in any circumstances than you can keep on justifying every lie that your make. So personally there is never any excuse for lying, not to a professor, judge, supervisor, client or even your family. Once you start lying it just a continual cycle, thus though who trust you and need to believe the things that are being said will always question you creditability the most crucial aspect within any career.

3. As a social work student, you certainly sometimes experience feelings of stress and pressure when faced with the numerous demands and deadlines. You may occasionally be tempted to cheat in some fashion, perhaps by plagiarizing a paper or lying to a professor to obtain an extension. How do you deal with such temptations?

Answer:

Even though pressures to cheat, lie plagiarize are all around, I have never been tempted to do so. Personally, I feel that you need to take responsibility for the numerous demands that are asked of us. So that the hard work and countless all niter will pay off in the end because I will know that the grade that I obtain I achieved on my own.

4. Suppose you served on a peer-review jury for a fellow social work student who was caught cheating on an exam. The evidence is overwhelming. There is no doubt that the cheating was intentional. What should happen to that student?

Answer:

I believe everyone deserve a second chance. I believe the student should be reprimanded but not expelled from the university. The student should receive a failing grade and not have the opportunity to re-do the exam. The embarrassment and failing grade will be punishment enough for that student to learn their lesson.

5. Suppose you serve as the supervisor of a social worker who is responsible for overseeing the welfare of abused and neglected children placed in foster care homes. What would you do if you discovered that the social worker fraudulently reports make twice-weekly visits with each child when the truth is that most children receive visits about once every two to three months and some children had not been visited in more than four months? How would your decision about what to do be affected if (a) the children were all safe and healthy or (b) one of the unvisited children died as a result of abuse by the members of the foster family?

Answer:

In the social work profession we are responsible for peoples live and neglecting the well-being of children or any individual need to be dealt with. First I would report the social worker to the Ontario College of Social Workers, so that this incident would be perminately place on their record. Secondly, I would fire the social worker because it is clear that they can not handle the work load and it is putting children at risk. No matter the situation if the kids were healthy or ended up dying, as a supervisor you need to take control of the situation and warn other not to make the same incompetent mistake.

Exercise 2-3 Critical Thinking and Lifelong Learning

1. How much and what kind of a “critical thinker and lifelong learner” are you?

Answer:

Throughout my life I have strived to be a lifelong learner. I have learnt from my past mistakes and failures. In addition my past successes and achievements. As well I have and always will be learning from others... If this quality were to be lacking it would almost be as if you would almost be as if you would be stagnated. I would categorize myself as a novice with regards to critical thinking.

2. Why might critical thinking and lifelong learning be more important for social workers during the 21st century?

Answer:

Lifelong learn is very important in the 21st century because there are always examination and explanations for different behaviours, discovering new ways the treat clients, furthermore social workers have developed new techniques with the practice of social work. Without the ability to lifelong learner social workers would be providing an injustice to the people they serve. Critical thinking is more important to social workers in the 21st century than ever before because the social work profession is not black and white. There are many situation the need a deep analysis the uncover the hidden problem .Social workers need to determine the array of areas that need to be examine to truly help the client..

3. Suppose you decided to become a proficient critical thinker, what steps might you takes to do so? What steps might you take to become a more effective lifelong learner?

Answer:

The steps I would take to become a more proficient critical thinker is to examine the past and present case studies and literature to fuller broaden my knowledge on the different skill and techniques used to help individuals. The steps I would take to become a more effective lifelong learner is I would continue to learn from my own mistakes, I would attempt to take risks with regards to my personal life but also with my profession life as a social work (e.g. Apply for a promotion, even though I might need a lot of training to actually be successful within that position). I would attend seminars, courses, workshops and read books, newspaper and magazine article to understand the changes that are occurring within our society.

Exercise 2-4 Family Genogram

1. What role or roles did you play in your family? At the present time, what role or roles do you tend to play in family or family like relationships?

Answer:

The role I play and have always played within my family was that of the peacekeeper. I hate confrontation, arguing and I feel that the atmosphere is less chaotic when there is peacekeeper to settle thing when peoples emotions gets away from them.

2. How was affection expressed in you family? At the present time, how do you tend to express affection?

Answer:

Affection within my family has always been a way for us to express our emotions to one other. Growing up with hugs and kisses on the forehead and cheek was a tradition before ever leaving the house. Saying ‘I Love you’ was a way for us kids to know that we could turn to are parent if we needed anything. Hearing I love you on a daily basis helped produce high self-esteem, confidence and the knowledge that you would always be coming home to a loving family.

3. How were feelings such as anger, fear, and joy expressed in your family? At this point in your life, how do you express these feelings?

Answer:

Anger fear and joy were expressed differently within my family. Growing up in a religious family we were never to knowledge fears but only pray to God for his help to overcome. Anger is a part of life, people get upset by comments, or acts made by individuals but we believed walking away and cooling off before having a discussion was a better for all parties involved. The way joy was expressed is through laughter, excitement, hugs and tears of happiness. Joy is always the best feeling to share with the members of your family. These feeling are still being expressed in this manner.

4. How were people (especially children), educated, guided and disciplined in your family? Who performed these socialization functions? Today, how do you attempt to educate or influence others?

Answer:

Within my family we were shown right from wrong; to respect others and to understand the values we were taught. We were guided to be our own people, not to following others, so we can take responsibility for our own mistakes. By doing this we would become content with who we are and who we would become. As for discipline, we were never spanked; we lost privileges according to our wrong behavior Our parent we able to take the time and teach us how to be productive member of society and by them doing this we are able to contribute to the community in many ways.. Today I attempt to influence and educate others through explaining the importance of being your own person. By achieving this goal you can accomplish great things.

5. How did you family reflect its ethnic and cultural identity and heritage? How do you?

Answer:

The way my family expresses their cultural identity is by traveling to the different areas my family came from. Speaking of the tales of the migration to Canada, and the courage and strength these people held. Carrying on traditions such as celebrating specific holidays, eating certain food performing rituals. I believe that keeping your cultural identity alive is an important part of life and I express my heritage by traveling to the homeland of my ancestors and carrying on specific tradition that are important to me.

6. What is your conception of the ideal family? How does it compare with your actual family experience?

Answer:

An ideal family contain characteristic of respect, love, caring individuals, who are able to speak their mind and be their own people. It is the differences in family member that make life interesting and I believe that my ideal family is my own. Because from the time I was born I have always felt love and care for and that is something I will treasure always.

Exercise 2-4 Eco-Map

1. Which relationships in your current situation enhance your energy level? Which deplete energy?

Answer:

My current relationships that enhance my current situation are my volunteer experience. I volunteer with Hospice of Windsor Essex County and I enjoy every minute of it. After my Grandfather died of Colon Cancer I began to volunteer for them because they were very supportive in my family’s time of need. Being able to give back to the community and help those in need of comfort and assistants really enhances my energy level. The relationship that depletes my energy level is that of my part-time job. I work at “Please Mum” and there is so much competition for sales and backstabbing that I am just drain by the time I leave work. I dread every minute accept the pay cheque.

2. How does your social situation affect the physical, intellectual, and emotional energy you have available for use in critical thinking and lifelong learning activities, service to clients, and other aspects of your social work roles?

Answer:

My personal social situation help me as a future social worker because within my life I feel supported, loved and energized which help with regards to critical thinking and lifelong learning activities.

3. What would you consider to be the ideal social situation? How does it compare with your current situation?

Answer:

The ideal social situation would contain respect, understanding and empathy. For a social situation to contain these elements it enables an individual to feel safe and comfortable within their environment. My ideal social situation and my current situation are very similar but I wouldn’t change a thing because you can learn a lot from social situation and grow into a better individual.

4. Given the nature of your present social situation, what kinds of clients and what issues would you be likely to elicit strong emotional reactions?

Answer:

Due to my current situation I would show a strong emotional reaction to those individuals who do not have a strong support system. Those individuals who are lacking a caring understanding and honesty relationship with their family and friends and are forced to discover life on their own make feeling of sorrow develop within me. I feel sorry for those who are unable to feel the love and caring feeling that an individual has the right to experience.

5. What changes in your current social situation might enhance the psychological, emotional, physical, cultural, spiritual, and social resources needed to provide high quality social work services to clients?

Answer:

Due to the way I was raise I have always shown others respect and support in any way I could. By being taught this at a very young age I will be able to provide a high quality of social work services to my client because I will be willing to explore and understand where the client in coming from. I will ensure that respect is always shown to my clients so that they will feel comfortable and confident enough in me to help them.

Exercise 2-4 Critical Events

1. What events or experiences in your life were “turning points” that led you to change directions or alter the course of your lifetime path?

Answer:

The event that leads me to alter of change my life path was that of my Grandfather’s death. I was unsure of what I really wanted to do with my life; I use to change career ideas from one day to the next. After my grandfather was diagnosed with colon cancer it was only a few month later that he past away. After seeing first hand the supports that Hospice and CCAC offered my family made me realize that I wanted to help those going through the same situation. So I decided that working with palliative care patient will enable me to remember my grandfather but also encourage those dying to hold on the live life to the fullest.

2. Look ahead ten or fifteen years. Assume that you continue along in your current life path. What significant events or experiences do you anticipate? How might those affect you?

Answer:

As I continue down my current life path I anticipate graduation with a BSW and working in palliative care. In a few years I tend to go back for my MSW and hope that one day I will obtain my PHD and be able to teach University. I will be married and have a couple kids and offer my children the same support and unconditional love my parent gave me.

3. Consider your critical-events timeline in relation to the roles and responsibilities of social workers. What do you see as the implications for you and your career as a social worker?

Answer:

The implications I see for myself in a future of social work are being very sensitive and overly relating to those individuals who have suffered any type of victimizations or harassment. There are positive aspects to my roles I find that I care deeply about those people who are vulnerable in society, which is the role of a social worker.

Exercise 2-4 Self-Control

1. How would you know when someone truly possesses a well-developed capacity for self-control?

Answer:

To know that a person possesses a well developed capacity for self control is by look beyond those issues that bother them and have the ability to ensure that they stay in a professional state of mind.

2. In what life areas have you exhibited strong self- control? In what areas have you shown insufficient self-control?

Answer:

With regards to strong self-control in my life I have exhibited is such areas as time-management, organization and I listen to others opinion and not automatically give my opinion on the topic being discusses. Poor self-control within my life would be that of my temper and my ability to snap at people quickly when I find they are irritating me.

3. Repetitive patterns of maladaptive behaviour, sometime called bad habits, compulsions or addictive behaviours can significantly interfere with your degree of self-control and the quality of your social work service to others. Identify that repetitive maladaptive behaviour in your own life that could impair your functioning as a social worker?

Answer:

Repetitive patterns of maladaptive behaviour for me would be that I am not very opinionated, so in good and bad situations I find it hard to articulate my feelings. Thus I might have a hard time stating to the client there own maladaptive behaviour. I am very stubborn in my own way, so it is hard for me to accept others prospective. So working with co-worker or other individuals it might be hard for me to accept other opinion due to the fact that I am fixed on my own views and ideas. These are areas that I need a lot of work in, so I can be the best social worker I can be.

4. Discuss those aspects of social work practice that are likely to require you to exercise the greatest amount of self-control?

Answer:

Aspects within the social work practice that are likely to require me to exercise great self-control would be domestic violence cases. Individuals whose safety and autonomy are in jeopardy and are still choosing go back to the abusive relationship will force me to use extreme self-control because if I don’t I could alienate the client.

5. Outline a plan to strengthen you self-control in those areas that might adversely affect your performance as a professional social worker?

Answer:

Outline to strength self-control

1. Write down all situation that self-control might be an issue

2. Analyze all situations to develop strategies to combat these situation

3. Try to look at stories from other people prospective

Exercise 2-5 Prejudice and Discrimination

1. Make note of at least one occasion when you personally experienced a prejudiced attitude or engaged in discriminatory behavior toward:

a) Someone of the other sex

Hearing a prejudicial slag

b) Someone of your own sex

Not speaking up when sexist comments are made about women

c) Someone of another ethnic group

Listening to a story that degrade a certain ethnic group

d) Someone of your own ethnic group

Not speaking up when someone assumes all white people are snobby

e) Someone older than yourself

Listening when people say that all old people are cruel and mean

f) Someone younger than yourself

Belittling younger people’s opinions with the assumption they don’t know as much.

g) Someone about your own age

People my age don’t know how to drive

h) Someone of a homosexual orientation

Listening to gay slang

i) Someone of a heterosexual orientation

Listening to straight slang

j) Someone of a higher economic group

That people with a higher income are snobby and have spoiled children

k) Someone of a lower economic group

Listening to people say that all poorer economic classes live in trailers and need social assistance

l) Someone of your own economic group

That they are to work-oriented and forget the meaning of family.

m) Someone you think is better educated

That the better educated, think they are better than everyone else

n) Someone you think is less well educated

All less educated people work at Wal-Mart

o) Someone who looks different from you

That different looking people are violent

p) Someone who looks similar to you

People say that white people think their better than everyone else

q) Someone more physically able bodied than you

That body builders are dumb

r) Someone less physically able bodied than yourself

That smaller built people are all weak

s) Someone you consider more intelligent than yourself

Those Doctors are mean and belittle their patients

t) Someone you consider less intelligent

People say that all construction workers are pigs

u) Someone with different beliefs

That Muslims are terrorists

v) Someone who has a similar belief system

That Christians are all fanatics

2. Discuss how prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory behavior might influence your personal life. Then address how such attitudes and behavior might affect your effectiveness as a social worker?

Answer:

Prejudicial attitudes and discriminatory behaviour could influence you like by make you feel self-conscious, insecure and afraid of those around you. This can effective my effectiveness as a social worker by causing me to avoid those group that cause me to feel uneasy. Then the whole cycle of prejudice and discrimination continues because I would be unwilling to ignore by bias and help those individuals.

Exercise 2-10 Acceptance

1. How would you know when someone truly accepts you? How would the form of acceptance vary if he or she differed in some identifiable way from you?

Answer:

The way that I would know if someone truly accepted me would be through there attitude towards me, if it was open and appreciative of the similarities and differences. The form of acceptance may differ when there is a difference between us by them becoming judgmental, and negative towards something in my life that they don’t believe in or accept as part of their life

2. Have you ever been truly and completely accepted by someone who differed from you? If so, what did it feel like? How did this acceptance affect your beliefs, attitudes, and behavior?

Answer:

Yes, I have been truly accepted by a different group. In the summer of last year, I was coming home from work when I got a flat tire. There was no one around and I found myself becoming panicky. It was around 9:30pm at night and I was on a county road trying for the first time to change a tire. When all of a sudden five motor cycle where coming down the road, they pulled off and walked towards me, my heart was pounding because all that was going through my mind was the rumour I heard about ‘Hell’s Angel’ and the murders they committed. One of the gentleman asked if I needed any help, I hesitate and than handed the tools over to the men. They changed my tire and I got to know these gentlemen and who they really stood for. They had families; some work full time and just biked as a hobby. All the stereotypes and prejudice I held for biker went right out the window. From that moment on I never looked at bikers the same way instead of viewing them as ruff, violent killing machine I was able to see that they are human beings just wanting to be accepted just like the rest of us.

3. Have you ever truly and completely accepted someone who differed from you? If so, what do you think enabled you to do so? If not, what prevented you?

Answer:

Yes, I have truly accepted people who are different from me. I have many friends who are of different nationality, races and ethnicity. It doesn’t matter to me their sexual orientation, religion or background because it’s the people on the inside I have gotten to know and love. I have many friends who are gay and lesbian and if I had chosen to discriminate and not be open to their livelihood I would have missed out on so much. Going to seminar and rallies that state that need for the prejudice to be over. If I had chosen not to be friends with individuals who are African American I would have missed out on gaining the knowledge first hand on the history behind the slavery and the courage these individuals held. By opening myself up to different races, cultures and orientation I have been able to broaden my knowledge and understand better the need for acceptance and what strategies need to be implemented to help other to destroy their own prejudices and discriminations.

4. How do you think people acquire intolerant attitudes about other people? How do you think people develop the capacity to accept others who differ from themselves?

Answer:

I think that people acquire intolerant attitudes about others because people are so easy manipulated by stuff they hear or witness. This causes intolerant attitudes to be develop and they escalate into deep hatred to other group be cause people are not willing to take the time and truly understand other circumstances. By can develop a capacity to accept other by listening and finding the truth with regards to situation because only them can people truly be accepted for who they our.

5. In order to transcend those powerful internal and external forces that tend to perpetuate prejudice, intolerance, and discrimination, outline the key points of a plan by which you might strengthen your capacity to accept others, especially those who differ from yourself

Answer:

To be able to strengthen your ability to accept others you may:

1. Attempt to walk a mile in the other person shoes. By doing this we might be able to understand better the situations and circumstances of these individuals.

2. Instead of look at the difference of the individuals examine the similarities you might have with each other.

3. Be open to hearing the stories of their peoples history which will enable a fuller understand of where they came from and who they are as an individual

Exercise 2-6 Social Support

1. Where and from whom do you experience the greatest, and the least, social support?

Answer:

I experience the greatest social support from my family. They have always been there supporting me in every area in my life and with their encouragement I have been able to achieve many things. I experience the least social support from my part-time job. Many of my colleges do not understand how time consuming University can be. They put down the education I am receiving and except me to contribute hours upon hours to my place of employment which is impossible especially when I am in school.

2. What kinds or forms of social support do you most like to give, and to receive?

Answer:

The kinds of social support I like to give are that of kindness and understand. When and individual is having a hard time deal with specific situation hearing caring words and knowing that there is an individual who understand what you are going through make the situation easier to bare. This type of social support I except within my life as well.

3. In what ways would you like to change your social support systems? Why? What steps might you take to make those changes?

Answer:

I wouldn’t want to change my social support in anyway; I find my family and friends to be there for me through everything that occurs in my life. They are always there to talk and always give me a shoulder to cry on.

Chapter 3 Ethical Decision Making

Exercise 3-1 Ethical Decision Making

1. As a social worker in the oncology unit of the general hospital, you frequently work with clients who are dying. An intelligent, articulate, 88 year old woman, Ms. T who has suffered from intense pain for several months, informs you that she has hoarded powerful analgesic medicines and intends to take her own life during the night. She says that she wants to say good-bye to you and to thank you for all your help during this time. However, she asks that you please do not interfere with her plans.

Answer:

The actions I would take is that I would report her to the appreciate authorities because you as her social worker is responsible for the well-being and safety of the individual.

2. As a social worker in an elementary school system, you frequently work with young children in small groups. During a meeting with several girls in the 8 to 10 year old range, one girl says that almost every night, her father comes into her bedroom, puts his hands under her pajamas, and touches between her legs.

Answer:

As a social worker I would have to report this because this girl is being harmed by her father and it is my duty to protect her.

3. A 25-year old man, father of two children, comes to a first interview with you, a social worker in a family-counseling agency. During the course of the interview, he reveals that he and his wife argue a lot. He says that she won’t stop arguing once she starts and that when he tries to walk away, she pursues him, yelling. He indicates that in those situations he becomes enraged. He reveals that on several occasions he has pushed her and once he punched her in the face, breaking her nose.

Answer:

If this individual has a history of abuse you need to be aware of it. You can ask the individual if he will harm his wife again and if he indicates “yes” you need to report it to the appropriate authorities. The social worker has the duty to warn and protect and will need to inform the wife that their might be other episodes violence. The social worker needs to inform this woman because she is potential at risk for harm and might need protection.

4. You have recently been employed in an agency whose clientele is primarily African American and Latino. All the professional staff are white. Several of the secretarial and support staff are African American. No one employed by the agency is Spanish-speaking.

Answer:

I have an ethical obligation for equality and everyone within the work place deserves to be respected. I would advocate ensuring that equality for employment is realized.

5. You have been working with a married couple who has indicated a desire to improve the quality of their relationship. You and the clients have agreed that direct, open, and honest communication is a relationship goal. Each has also expressed that sexual fidelity is an important dimension of their marriage. Between the fifth and sixth meetings, you receive a telephone call from one of the partners who says, “I think it would help you to know that I an involved romantically with another person. My spouse does not know and I know that you will not reveal this information because of your legal obligation to maintain confidentiality. I want you know about this other relationship because I think it will help you to help us. I have come to respect your expertise. You are doing a wonderful job. Thank-you.”

Answer:

Due to the confidentiality aspect of the code of ethic I would not inform the wife. However, I would discuss with this gentleman the many alternatives to telling the wife and how it would be beneficial to the marriage. However, it will be up to the spouse if he chooses to disclose this information

Chapter 4 (Talking and Listening)

Exercise 4-4 Active Listening

1. Client: My life is in shambles. My wife is divorcing me and she is going to take me to the cleaners.

Answers:

Is it safe for me to say that you are overwhelmed and you felt like you are no longer in control of your own life? You are very concerned that your wife is going to drain you financially.

2. Supervisor: I am disappointed that you did not follow up on the Sanchez case. You know that those children are at risk.

Answers:

I hear you saying that you are anger with me because I failed to complete the task asked of me and that is to protect those kids.

3. Professor: I wonder if the match between your personal values and those of the social work profession is a good one. It appears to me that your attitudes are quite different from those required of social workers.

Answers:

I sense that you feel that the social work values are very different from mine. You are concerned if social work profession is really the right career for me to undertake.

4. Client: My husband thinks I am an alcoholic. I’m here because he made me come. Sure, I drink. I drink a lot. But he’s the reason I drink.

Answers:

Am I right in saying that you are angry with you husband for forcing you to be here, however, you do realize that you drink a lot but you blaming your husband for the way that you drink.

5. Classmate: I’ve missed the last three classes and don’t know what’s going on in here. Today is the day of the midterm exam and I know I’m going to flunk. I’m so uptight, I can’t think straight.

Answers:

I hear you saying you feel unprepared for the midterm exam because you missed some classes. This is causing you to feel worried, anxious, and concerned about the exam that is happening today.

6. Colleague: I am working with a family that is driving me up the wall. I know I have a problem here. I get so angry with this family for not trying to help themselves. I work so damn hard and they don’t do a thing!

Answers:

I sense that you are feeling hurt and angry at the family progress. You have work so hard with this family and you feel like you’re the only one working towards the contacted goals. You disappointed in the way the family is reacting to the therapy.

7. Child: Sometimes my mommy’s boyfriend is mean to her. He hits her and she ends up crying a lot. I don’t like him at all.

Answers:

Am I right in saying that you hate you mommy’s boyfriend because he is mean to her.

Chapter 5 (Preparing)

Exercise 5-1: Preparatory Reviewing

1. Highlight the information contained in the report that you, as a social worker, would want to remember for your first meeting with Mrs. Cannon.

Answers:

** Mrs. Cannon telephoned from her place of work

** Amy the daughter of Ms. Cannon is 14 years old

** Issue is that Amy came home after her 9:00pm curfew late smelling like alcohol

** The first meeting Ms. Cannon want to be alone

** This is Mrs. Cannon’s first meeting with a mental health agency

**The father had recently filed for divorce, six weeks ago and is no longer living with them

Exercise 5-2: Preparatory Exploring

1. Write the questions you would ask and identify the information you would seek as you use the skill of preparatory exploring of Fr. Sanchez

Answer:

I would ask Fr Sanchez:

^^ How long had he known the family

^^ How well did he know the family

^^ Through this agency what did the family wish to receive

^^Had the family ever received help from any other agency or support system.

^^ Is the family aware of the referral the priest is making to the agency

^^ What services had the church offered the family

^^Had any of these services worked for the family

^^Is the family willing to get help

Exercise 5-3: Preparatory Consulting

1. Identify the information you would seek and the issues you would address with your supervisor

Answer:

The information that I would seek consultation about would be:

^^ Within this situation what are all the options

^^ What are our legal obligations

^^ Within our own agencies what steps should be taken

^^ What agency, if any should a referral be made

Exercise 5-4: Preparatory Arranging

1. Discuss how you would use the skill of arranging in preparation for the meeting with Mr. Somes.

Answer:

What I would do to prepare for the meeting would be:

• I would make sue officer would be outside the door, due to the nature of the individual

• I would discuss with my college that he would have to leave due to the nature of the discussion

• I would ensure the client felt comfortable before I told him the nature of his wife illness

• I would encourage that he would read some books or pamphlet about grief and the loss of a loved one.

Exercise 5-5: Preparatory Empathy

1. Engage in the skill of Preparatory empathy as if you were about to meet the parents of the AIDS patient in this situation. Record your thoughts and feelings in the space below

Answer:

I thoughts and feelings I would prepare:

• The main thing that needs to be researched is the grief process this family will be going through.

• I would try to understand the feelings and situation the family would be going through by using preparatory empathy

• The child might feel anger that he would be dying from this disease. However, the parents might be anger at the son for contracting the disease

• Sadness, sense of loss, and the overwhelming thought of loosing the child.

• Shock and dismay will definitely be an emotion both parties will be feeling.

Exercise 5-6: Preparatory Self-Exploration

1. Write what you would discover about yourself as you engage in self-exploration before meeting Cathy’s father

Answer:

I might be affected by the interaction in the sense that:

• Feelings that this man who molested this child should be punished

• Frustrated at the fact that this man violated this child

• Sorrow that this child had to experience such a horrible act

Exercise 5-7: Centering

1. Please describe the activities you would undertake in order to center yourself before meeting with the client

Answer:

The activities I would undertake in order to center would be:

• Question why I didn’t get the 7% raise like the others

• Question, why I was the only one who didn’t get the raise

• Understand and come to terms with the feelings I have such as disappointment, and resentment towards those who received the raise

• Resolve that I will talk to my supervisor in regard to the issue

• Realize that others work hard and to begrudge them the raise is unfair on my part

Exercise 5-8: Preliminary Planning and Recording

1. You have been assigned to collect information and formulate a recommendation a to the placement of a 12 year old, whose parents are divorcing. Develop and record a preliminary plan for the meeting.

Answer:

• To the 12 year old boy and the parent, I would identify myself and my position within the agency

• The laws and right of the situation needs to be examined

• My first responsibility is the child but I will ensure that I meet with all the members of the family.

2. Ms. Rivera indicates that her brother who is a veteran of war has trouble keeping jobs, drinks heavily, has trouble with nightmares, as well as occasionally has violent outbursts. Lately she is concerned because he has threatened to take his own life. He won’t go to the agency, so you agree to meet him at his home. The first meeting will be at 5:30 at his home. Develop at preliminary plan for the meeting.

Answer:

• I would introduce myself, my agency, and my role at the agency

• The code of ethics and the rights of the individual will be discussed.

• Clarify the concerns Ms Rivera id having with regards to Hector and his behaviour

• Explore what Hector would like to get from our agency

• Indicate the services that are available to Hector

Exercise 5-9: Summary

1. A family of seven has been sleeping in their car, on their way to another city in the hopes of finding work. They have run out of money and are nearly out of gas. They are referred to your agency. Engage in preparatory empathy.

Answer:

The parents must be feeling sad, hopeless and overwhelmed. The family is having a difficultly uprooting their life in hopes that they can find work. The parents might be angry with themselves that they are having trouble taking care of their family financially but also emotionally.

2. Through self-exploration, identity those personal factors that might affect you as you provide services to this family. Then describe how you would center yourself.

Answer:

Through self-exploration I am angry at the parent for being so self-involved and allowing these children to suffer. In the social work profession it is common practice to protect the children so by centering myself and developing an understand that they are trying to better themselves and the families future that if the parent where able to support their children they would.

3. Record the preliminary plan for your first meeting with the family.

Answer:

• I would introduce myself, my agency and the role I provide

• Explain the general purpose of the meeting

• Explain the limits to confidentiality and the duty to report if indication of child abuse

• Inquire what the family would like to get out of the service that will be provided

• Ask were they would like to see themselves in the future

4. A 33-year old man is accused of molesting his girlfriend’s 13-year old daughter. He must undergo counseling to avoid jail time. The man was living with his girlfriend, now he lives alone. Engage in preparatory empathy as you ready yourself to meet with your prospective client.

Answer:

He might be feeling upset and anger with the fact that he might be face jail time. He could feel hurt that he will no longer have a girlfriend but disappointed that he got caught.

5. Through self-exploration, identify those personal factors that might get in the way of your helping the man. Then describe how you would center yourself.

Answer:

I feel hatred and disgust towards this individual. I am angry that he causes pain to this young girl. I am sad that this girl had to experience such a horrible action. A way that I can center myself is by realizing that he is a sick and that he needs to get help.

6. Prepare the preliminary plan that results from your preparation to meet this man.

Answer:

• I would introduce myself, my agency, and my role within it

• Any and all ethical and legal obligations.

• Explain that anything her report to me I will have to inform the court

• I would ask him what he would like to get from this service.

7. You work at (CPS), you receive a call from a neighbor of the Smith family that the parents are neglecting and abusing their children, ages 1 and 3. The children play in a filthy backyard, full of animal waste, and dangerous materials while the mother sleeps. The man of the house allegedly drinks heavily and beats both mother and children. Engage in preparatory empathy as you prepare to meet with the family.

Answer:

The parents could feel angry toward the CPS for making a house visit. The parents could also feel betrayed by their neighbour. The children could feel abandoned and scared with regard to both the parent actions.

8. Through self-exploration identify those personal factors that might affect the quality of your professional service. Then describe how you may center yourself.

Answer:

I am anger with regard to the fact that those children have been neglected and beaten by both parent. I will be able to center myself by realizing these parents need to receive help before they will ever be able to see their kid again.

9. Prepare the preliminary plan for the meeting

Answer:

• I would introduce myself, my agency and role

• Inform them that you’re here to protect the child

• Inform them of the duty to warn and protect

• What they hope to do with regards to getting their kids back

• What they want to get out of are agency

10. You serve as a social worker on the cancer ward of a children’s hospital. You receive a request from a Doctor that you join her as she informs the parents of an 8-year old girl that their daughter has leukemia. Engage in preparatory empathy as you ready yourself for the meeting.

Answer:

The parents must be devastated after discovering that their child has leukemia. Scared they their daughter might die. The parent also might feel anger with regards to their child having to experience such a horrible ordeal.

11. Through the process of self-exploration, identify those personal factors that might inhibit the effectiveness of the situation. Then describe how you might center yourself

Answer:

I feel empathy towards the family and sad that such a young child has to experience such a horrible event. I will have to center myself by realizing that I have a job to do and my judgment can’t be impaired.

12. Prepare a preliminary plan for the meeting.

Answer:

• I would introduce myself, my agency, and my role within it

• Clarify the code of ethics and the important of confidentiality

• Acknowledge the emotions each family member is experiencing.

• Make the family aware that there are many services available to help them

Chapter 6 (Beginning)

Exercise 6-1: Introducing Yourself

1. Assume that you are a social worker in a residential nursing facility for elderly persons. You are scheduled to meet with family members concerning the possibility of placing their 85-year old parent there. What would you say and do in introducing yourself.

Answer:

I would state my name (Kellie Holgate), extend and shake hands with the family. I would state that I am the social worker in the residential nursing facility and smile warmly. I would state my role within the agency and begin the conversation with a joke or make some comments about the weather to get the conversation flowing.

2. Assume that you are recently hired as a social worker in a training center for the developmentally disabled children and young adults. Today, you are about to lead a group of six or eight teenage residents. The students are already seated in the room when you arrive. Although a few of them may have seen you walking around campus, none of them actually knows you and you don’t know any of them. What would you say and do in introducing yourself?

Answer:

I would smile warmly and say Hello to all the individuals in the room while going around the room and shake each person’s hand. I would introduce myself (Kellie Holgate) and incorporate an ice breaking exercise to show the individuals that it is a safe and comfortable environment. I would insure that they know they can call me by my first name which would make me an equal with the rest of them and destroy the power imbalance.

.

Exercise 6-2: Seeking Introductions

1. You are about to begin an interview with a recently divorced 55-year old man. As you walk together to your office you can smell a strong odor of alcohol. How would you introduce yourself and seek his introduction? Discuss your rationale for the words you chose.

Answer:

I would state my name while extending my hand, smiling all the while. Explain my role in the office. I would then ask him his name, well making sure I kept eye contact the whole time. In regards to the alcohol on his breath, I would ask general questions to get the conversation flowing, if he does bring up the drinking I would let it go but if he continually came into the agency smelling like alcohol I would mentions it to him later.

2. You are about to begin an interview with a 77-year old widow who is hard of hearing. She can make out most words if they are spoken clearly, distinctively, and at a low pitch. How would you introduce yourself and seek her introduction. Explain your rationale for the words and actions you chose and why?

Answer:

I would make eye contact and extend my hand to perform a hand shake with the women. I would smile and introduce myself in a loud a slow manner. I would ask for her name by stating you name is*** which will enable and introduction to take place. The reason why I would be using such technique is because most of by interaction is non verbal instead of the name stating which will enable the women to realize that it is a warm environment she is entering into because of the hand shake, warm smile and constant eye contact.

3. You are about to begin a first interview with a family of seven members. You know that it is a blended family and that not all of the children have the same last name. You do not, however, know which children are from which relationships. How do you introduce yourself and seek introductions? Would you say or do anything else? Discuss your rationale for the words you chose.

Answer:

I would smile and extend my hand for a hand shake with each separate individual. I would state my name and than asking for each individuals full name thus hoping I would be able to determine who belonged to whom. I would ask the family of seven what they enjoyed doing with each other in hopes that it would break the ice and start the conversation flowing.

4. You are about to begin an interview with a perspective client. As you introduce yourself and seek an introduction from her, you realize that she speaks a language that is neither English nor Spanish. And you do not understand her. What do you do, discuss your rationale?

Answer:

Firstly, I would determine if she does speak English, if not I would inform my supervisor and see what alternative there is to help her. Whether she needs to be referred to another agency or if we can help her with the assistance of an interpreter. I would have to determine what language she does speak to determine the route to take.

Exercise 6-3: Describing Initial Purpose

1. You are a social worker with a public housing agency. You are currently in the process of interviewing all residents of a building in an effort to determine their social service needs. You have just knocked on the door of Mrs. Strong’s apartment. She is a single mother of five children, age range from 9 years to 6 months. Write the words you would say to show your initial purpose.

Answer:

I would introduce myself to Mrs. Strong and state that I am a social worker from a public housing agency. I would state my role within the agency and ask if there is any social service need that needed to be addressed and inform her that I am talking to all the residents within the building.

2. You are a social worker in the emergency room of a general hospital. Paramedics have just brought in an auto Accident victim. Doctors are performing lifesaving methods. Family members of the victim arrive. It’s your job to provide them with a place to wait and explain to them in general terms what is occurring. You go up to the family introduce yourself, and guide them to a private area. Write the words you would use to describe the initial purpose, as well as role?

Answer:

In this case I would explain to this patient’s family that my purpose as well as role in these situations is to take you to a private more comfortable area, and stay with you while you wait for news.

2. You are a social worker in a nursing home. A new resident arrived over the weekend, and you go to her room for the first visit. You intend to introduce yourself and get acquainted. You realize that you will need to undertake a complete social history before the week is out. What you say to describe the initial purpose of the upcoming meeting.

Answer:

I would introduce myself and smile warmly. I would state my role within the agency and explain the reason why I am visiting her. I would make it clear that I will need to complete a social history so I can better understand her needs.

4. You lead counseling groups for children who have been sexually abused. You are about to begin a new group, composed of five girls. You have met individually with each girl, but they have never met together. You ask each to introduce themselves, they all do but in a soft voice. You want the group to be a warm, safe and secure environment. Write the words you would say in describing an initial purpose for the meeting.

Answer:

I would explain to the girls, the purpose of the group but I would make it clear that they will run the group. Explaining that they can take the sessions wherever they want it to go. They don’t need to feel pressure to talk about things that they feel are too private and they need to be open to the experience, so it can be productive for everyone.

Exercise 6-4: Outlining Client Roles

1. You are a social worker meeting for the first time with a couple who has marital difficulties. Mr. and Mrs. Koslow, who have been married ten years and have two children. They have identified as a purpose for the first meeting to explore the problems and concerns that led the couple to come to the agency. You now want to outline the roles of the clients.

Answer:

For these session to work I would make it clear to the couple that everyone needs to talk openly, express their emotion and acknowledge the other person feeling. Everyone needs to feel respected and feel free to discuss anything that is concerning them. This will enable a positive outcome to take place.

2. Assume that you are a social worker meeting for the first time with a family of four. The eldest daughter has reportedly begun to smoke marijuana and to drink beer and wine. The mother is very concerned and has brought the entire family to meet with you. You want to outline the roles of the clients in the process. What would you say?

Answer:

In order for these sessions to be productive everyone needs to feel respected, so when on person is talk the rest much listen even if what is being stated it is not agreed upon. Anything that is concerning an individual should be brought up so that the issue can be discussed and resolved. Open communication is key for this to be a positive process.

Exercise 6-5: Discussing Policy and Ethical Factors

1. You are a social worker with a public housing agency. You are currently in the process of interviewing all residents of a building in an effort to determine their social service needs. You have just introduced yourself and described an initial purpose and role to Mrs. Strong’s. She is a single mother of five children, age range from 9 years to 6 months. Write the words you would say to discuss policy and ethical factors

Answer:

I would inform Ms. Strong that anything stated her today will stay within the session. I am required to report any child abuse or if anything indicate harm to others or self. If any question, feel free to stop me anytime within the session. Let’s get started

2. You are a social worker in a nursing home. A new resident arrived over the weekend, and you go to her room for the first visit. You intend to introduce yourself and get acquainted. You realize that you will need to undertake a complete social history before the week is out. Following a reintroduction of yourself and a description of the purpose and role, you want to outline the ground rules for the working relationship. Write the words you would say in discussing policy and ethical factors with this new resident.

Answer:

I would inform the resident that anything stated her today will stay within the session. I am required to report any child abuse or if anything indicate harm to others or self. If any question, feel free to stop me anytime within the session. Let’s get started

3. You lead counseling groups for children who have been sexually abused. You are about to begin a new group, composed of five girls. You have met individually with each girl, but they have never met together. You ask each to introduce themselves, they all do but in a soft voice. You want the group to be a warm, safe and secure environment. You’ve described an initial purpose for the meeting; now discuss the ethical factors as they might relate to this group of five girls.

Answer:

I would inform the ladies that one of my main jobs in this meeting is to always have your best interest in mind. So anything said is confidential unless I feel that it might cause you or others harm. I would explain to the girl that I want them to feel comfortable and confident enough in me, so they can trust me enough to share their feelings. Is there any questions? Make sure we respect one another, and let’s get started

Exercise 6-6: Seeking Feedback

1. Write the words you would use in seeking feedback regarding purpose from Joan and Emily

Answer:

Joan: Does everything sound o.k to you? Or are there still things that you need clarified?

Emily: How does this sound? If you ever want me to go over something don’t hesitate to ask.

2. Write the words you would use is seeking feedback from Joan regarding policy and ethical factors

Answer:

Do you understand everything that I just went over? If you need clarification please let me know? I want you to be comfortable with everything I discussed with you?

3. Write the words you would use in seeking feedback from Mr. Battle concerning what you have said thus far.

Answer:

I want this to be a growing process for you, so if you have any questions about what we have discussed so far please feel free to state them?

4. Write the words you would use in seeking feedback from Mr. Battle concerning what you have said thus far.

Answer:

I know that this is your life, Mr. Battle, so if there is anything you don’t understand, please let me know so we can discuss these issues. It is important that your concerns are brought up, so you can receive the best quality help our agency can offer.

Exercise 6-7: Summary

1. Earlier in the day, a woman telephoned the agency and said she wanted to talk with someone about an incident that had occurred about 1 week earlier. A man she had met in a bar drove her home and then raped her. She had thought that she would be able to manage her feelings about the crime by herself. However, she now realizes that she needs help to cope with the aftereffects of the violation. She said, “I am falling apart”. What you say and do in beginning a meeting?

Answer:

Hello my name is (Kellie Holgate) (Shake Hands) what’s your name? I am the social worker at this agency. Just so you know whatever we discuss within this session will stay in this session. The only reason I would ever inform anyone about what we discussed is if I felt you were about to harm others or yourself. The reason why we are meeting is to discuss anything that the she wants to discuss. It is her chose of where the session goes and we can talk or not talk it is up to her. Do you have any question thus far? If not let’s get started.

2. The agency receptionist informs you that in the waiting room there in a 55-year old man, agitated he is saying “I have to die” repeatedly. You proceed to the reception area and ask him to accompany you. What do you say in the beginning?

Answer:

Hello my name is (Kellie Holgate) (Shake Hands) What’s your name? I am the social worker at this agency. Just so you know whatever we discuss within this session will stay in this session. The only reason I would ever inform anyone about what we discussed is if I felt you were about to harm others or yourself. I was wondering if we could start off by discussing what was mentioned in the lobby. Let’s sit down and talk, if that is okay with you?

3. Recently, a 14-year old African American has told her schoolteacher that she is pregnant by her white boyfriend. She states she has to have an abortion, soon. The school teacher tells you, the school social worker. You set up an appointment with the girl what do you say in beginning?

Answer:

Hello my name is (Kellie Holgate)(Shake hands) What’s your name? I am the social worker at this agency. Just so you know whatever we discuss within this session will stay in this session. The only reason I would ever inform anyone about what we discussed is if I felt you were about to harm others or yourself. You teacher told me that your concerned about something? Do you want to start with that?

4. An 8-year old victim of sexual molestation seems to be in a state of emotional shock. She has not spoken a single word since the incident was discovered several days ago. The child has been referred to you, a social worker who specializes in work with victimized children. A home visit is scheduled for the present time. The child’s mother answers the door. What would you do and say in beginning, first with the mother and then the 8-year old girl, herself?

Answer:

MOTHER: Hello, I’m Kellie (smile, shake her hand), I am a social worker here at this agency. Everything we say in this meeting is will stay in this meeting unless I feel that there might be harm to yourself or others., I realize that you have been through a great ordeal. I want to make this as easy for you as possible. If you ever have any questions, just ask. I want you to be aware of everything that is going on.

CHILD: Hi, there sweetie. My name is Kellie, what’s yours. (Smile) I know you’ve been through a lot. I am here to help you, is there anything that you want to talk about? I know your probably scared and feeling a bunch of feelings. Whenever you want to talk I am hear to listen. If you ever have any questions please just ask me

5. A 42-year old woman nearly beaten to death several times over the past 10 years wants help in dealing with the situation. She sought help in a battered women’s shelter, were you are a social worker; you are about to meet with her for the first time, what do you say to begin?

Answer:

Hello my name is (Kellie Holgate) (Shake hands) What’s your name? I am the social worker at this agency. Just so you know whatever we discuss within this session will stay in this session. The only reason I would ever inform anyone about what we discussed is if I felt you were about to harm others or yourself. We can start with whatever you want to talk about but I want you to know that you can trust me and we will be able to discover strategies that will help you get your life back on track?

Chapter 7 Exploring

Exercise 7-1: Asking Questions

1. You are in the midst of the first interview with Mr. K., a recently divorced 55 year old man. You have introduced yourself and have addressed the other aspects of the beginning phase of practice. You are now ready for an initial exploratory question. At this point, you know only that Mr.K.’s concern relates in some way to the divorce. Therefore, you want to encourage him to explore that topic in depth. Write the words you would say in asking this first question. Once recorded, indicate whether it is opened or closed ended. Discuss your rationale for choosing this particular question. How do you think Mr. K. would respond?

Answer:

The question that I would ask to have him explore the issue of his divorce would be: (1) How are you feeling since the divorce?

Open ended questions are “phrased in a manner that encourages people to express themselves expansively and extensively “(224). Therefore this question that I will be asking Mr. K. is an opened-ended question because it enables the individual to explore the hidden meanings behind what he is really feeling. I believe that Mr. K. will respond is a positive way and express feelings of anger, betrayal and despair.

2. You have just begun to interview Mrs.O., a 77 year old widow who lives alone in a small apartment. You have already introduced yourselves, outlined some of the services that might be of interest to Mrs. O. and addressed other dimensions of the beginning phase. Now write the words you would say in asking an initial exploratory question. Once recorded, determine whether it is open or close ended. Discuss your rationale for choosing this question and anticipate how you think Mrs. O. would respond.

Answer:

The question I would ask Mrs. O is: (1) Have you always lived in this apartment?

This is a close ended question because it “elicits short responses” (223). The reason I chose to use a close ended question is because it is a great introductory tool and it enables the individual to become comfortable with the whole process they are experiencing. I believe that Mrs. O. response would consist of how long she has lived within the apartment, which would open the door to a multitude of question that could bring Mrs. O. to explore her life since her husband’s death.

Exercise 7-2: Seeking Clarification

1. You are in the midst of the first interview with Mr. K., a recently divorced 55-year-old man. You have introduced yourself and addressed other aspects of beginning. You are in the midst of exploring the person-issue-situation. Mr. K. says, “I feel so bad. It really hurts. I miss her terribly. I’m not sure I can go on.” Write the words you would say in seeking clarification of what he has just said. After you have written your response, discuss your rationale for the words you have chosen. How do you think he might react to this question? Now try preceding your attempt to seek clarification with an active listening response. What effect does that have?

Answer:

Seeking Clarification: What do you mean when you say “I’m not sure I can go on”. This relates to the on a personal level, thus it will cause the client to response in a way that will require further exploring of not only his feelings but also acknowledge any actions he might be considering with regards to his wife leaving. An active listening response that I would use is “I can sense that you our feeling a lost of control, despair, which is making you feel horrible as a person”. This will give Mr.K. a reason to examine more of the feelings he is experiencing but this might enable a better connection between worker-client, if the client feels understood.

2. As an outreach worker for elderly persons, you are in the midst of an interview with Mrs. O., a 77 year-old widow who lives alone. At one point in the conversation, Mrs. O. abruptly stops talking and looks blankly away. For perhaps 45 seconds, she does not respond to any of your questions. Then suddenly, she shakes her head slightly and redirects her attention to you. Write the words you would use to seek clarification in this situation. After you have written your response, discuss your rationale for the words you have chosen. How do you think Mrs. O. might react to this question?

Answer:

Seeking Clarification: “I can see you need to process this situation, is their something you need to talk about?” This allows her time to know that I am understanding the silence and for her not to rush, but as a Social Worker I am still available for her to talk when she is ready. Mrs. O. will react in a way that will enable her to came back and reconnect with her feelings.

Exercise 7-3: Reflecting Content

1. You are in the midst of an interview with Mrs.O., a 77 year old widow who lives alone. Following an episode in which she appeared to lose awareness of her surroundings, Mrs. O. says, “I do occasionally have these spells. I don’t pass out or fall down or anything like that. I just kind of wake up after a while.” Write the words you would use in reflecting the content of Mrs.O.’s message. After you have written your response, discuss your rationale for the words you have chosen. How do you think Mrs. O. might react to your content reflection?

Answer:

Reflection: You’re saying that even though you don’t physically hurt yourself by falling. These spells do occur where you loose consciousness for a while. This is relating to the client content which will open the conversation for further exploring her feelings about the spells. Mrs. O. might react by examining how she feels physically but also emotionally about these spells.

Exercise7-4: Reflecting Feelings

1. During you first interview with Mr.K., a recently divorced 55 year old man, he says, “I am absolutely lost. There is no reason to go on. I feel like someone reached into my gut and wrenched out my insides.” Write the words you would say in reflecting the feelings Mr.K. has expressed. After you have written your response, discuss your rationale for the words you have chosen. How do you think he might react to your reflection? Identify two Alternative feeling reflections that might also apply in this situation?

Answer:

Reflection: You’re feeling confused and miserable due to the fact that your wife has life you alone to care for yourself. Your feeling as though you can’t function without her which is making you feel sick inside.” Relates to client emotionally will cause more exploration of what he feels inside. He might react in a positive way because he feels understood and he might feel comfortable enough to explore deeper into what he is experiencing. Two alternative reflections:

1. Your feeling angry with your wife for leaving you and your feeling physically sick at that fact that you might not be able to get her back.

2. You’re feeling abandoned and hurt that your wife could just leave you after so many years and now you’re experiencing uncertainty about your future.

Exercise 7-5: Reflecting feeling and Meaning

1. In the midst of your first interview with Mr.K., a recently divorced 55 year old man, you are exploring his feelings about his situation. He says “I was so used to her being there. I needed her but I never told her so. Now that she’s gone, I realize just how much she meant to me. “Write the words you would say in reflecting the feeling and meaning contained in what Mr. K. has said. After you have written your response, discuss your rationale for the words you have chosen. How do you think Mr. K. might respond? Identify two alternative feeling and meaning reflections that might also apply in this situation.

Answer:

Reflection: “I’m hearing that you feel like you took her for granted. You’re feeling remorseful and regret at what had transpired.” By reflection on the meaning and feeling of what Mr. K. had said indicates that he is understood, thus it will enable further exploration of what he is experiencing. Two alternative feeling and meaning reflection:

1. Your feeling regret that your never vocalized how you were feeling to your wife and now your feeling a sense of loss because she is now gone.

2. I’m hearing that you’re were very dependant on your wife and now that she is gone, your fearful of what the future holds.

Exercise 7-6: Partializing

1. You are interviewing Mr. K., a recently divorced 55 year old man. He says, “I think I’m on the brink of a nervous breakdown. I can’t do my work. I can’t sleep at night. I don’t eat. All I do is think about her. I wonder what she’s doing and whether she ever thinks of me. It’s affecting my job; I think my boss is getting tired of my mistakes. I’ve also forgotten to pay some bills. Creditors are calling all the time. My whole life is a mess.” First, separate and identify each of the elements in the client’s message. List them in outline fashion. Which do you think is most important? Now write the words you would say in attempting to partialize what Mr. K. has said: After you have written your partializing response, discuss your rationale for the words your have chosen. How do you think Mr. K. might react?

Answer:

Outline list from most important to least important:

1. Can’t eat or sleep

2. brink of nervous breakdown

3. Job is being affected

4. Bills pilling up

5. Feels lost without wife

Partializing what Mr.K. said:” A lot of things are happening in your life. It sound like it’s affecting many areas in your life. Since there is so many issues, not eating or sleeping, trouble at work and credit problems- could we start by looking at each one separately. Is this okay with you? What issue is affecting you the most? Will start with that one” Since Mr. K will be picking which issue is effecting him the most, puts some control back in his life. If Mr. K. doesn’t pick the eating and sleeping problem we as Social Worker need to make sure this is addressed before most of the problem are discussed. Mr. K. might react as positive to the whole process.

Exercise 7-7: Going Beyond

1. You are interviewing Mr. K., a recently divorced 55 year old man. You are in the process of exploration when he says, “I guess I’m a real wimp! I want so badly for her to com back home. All I do is think of ways to get her back. I make these plans about how to contact her; how to persuade her to change her mind. I constantly wonder what she’s doing and whether she ever thinks of me.” Write the words you would say in going beyond what Mr. K. has said. After you have written your response, discuss your rationale for the words you have chosen. How do you think he might react to your response? Identify another way you might go beyond what he said.

Answer:

Going Beyond: “Your saying that you want to take the innovative, so you can show your wife how much you love her.” By going beyond what the client is really saying, you are able to being great clarity to the issue the client is experiencing. This might put Mr.K. into putting his plan into action and attempt to get this wife back.

Additional Response:

1. You are wondering if you told your wife the way you really feel, would this whole situation of happened?

Chapter 7 Summary Exercises

1. Case Situation: You are in the midst of the first interview with a teenage couple (An African American male and white female) who have sought counseling in advance of their forthcoming marriage. She says, “I know there are going to be lots of difficulties and that’s why we’re here. We don’t want the problem to get in the way of our feelings for each other.”

Answer:

a) Write the words you would say in reflecting the content of her statement?

- You realize there is going to be issues with the upcoming marriage but you don’t want these difficulties to effect the feelings you have for one another

b) Formulate an open-ended question to follow her statement?

- How are you feeling about the upcoming marriage?

- Are you anxious about the wedding?

c) ) Write the words you would say in seeking clarification of her expression?

- What do you mean when you say “You know there is going to be a lot of difficulties?

Following your response, she says, “One of the biggest problem has to do with my parents. My mom is fit to be tied and my dad is even worse. He’s ready to kill Johnny, and he doesn’t even know him. I’m’ afraid they won’t even come to the wedding. That would really hurt.”

d) Write the words you would say in reflecting the feeling and meaning contained in her message.

- I’m hearing that your mom and dad have a big problem with the wedding and your feeling overwhelmed and hurt with the whole ordeal.

e) Demonstrate how you would use the skill of going beyond in response to her words.

- You sometimes wonder what it would be like if your parents did respect your decision and gave Johnny a chance.

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