LMSW Practice Test

In the beginning phases of establishing a professional relationship with a client, a social worker must convey a sense that the social worker's predominant feeling is

1. a neutral attitude

2. a sense of objective observation

3. healthy skepticism

4. positive acceptance

The correct answer is: a neutral attitude

In the initial stages of establishing a professional relationship with a client, conveying a neutral attitude is essential. A neutral stance helps create a safe space for the client to express their thoughts and feelings without the influence of the social worker's personal biases or opinions. This neutrality encourages trust and open communication, which are critical for effective engagement and rapport-building. When a social worker maintains a neutral attitude, clients feel more comfortable sharing their experiences. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the client's needs and circumstances, ultimately allowing for more effective interventions. Cultivating neutrality also helps to establish professional boundaries, ensuring that the focus remains on the client's needs and goals rather than the social worker's feelings or assumptions. A sense of objective observation is important in social work practice, but it is not the predominant feeling conveyed in the early stages of building a relationship. While healthy skepticism can be useful in certain contexts, it might hinder the initial connection and trust that are crucial at this stage. Positive acceptance, while valuable, may not emphasize the necessary neutrality that is vital at the onset of a professional relationship.