Question

A couple reports increased marital conflicts. The husband notes that his wife has become irritable, isolative, and lethargic since she was laid off from her job three months ago. The wife states she is tired of her husband's constant nagging for her to be more helpful around the house. Both report a lack of physical and emotional intimacy but express a desire to resolve their problems. In order to gain an understanding of the degree to which current stressors are impacting the couple's relationship, the social worker should FIRST ask about:

A. The wife's work history and her prognosis for re-employment.
B. The couple's styles of coping and their degree of effectiveness.
C. The effect of socioeconomic factors on the couple's problems.
D. The effect of dysfunctional patterns in the couple's communication.

Answer 1

The social worker should prioritize inquiring about the couple's coping styles and effectiveness, as these can significantly influence their marital dynamics and contribute to conflicts. This understanding is foundational to addressing the tensions in their relationship.

Step-by-step explanation:

When addressing the situation presented by the couple reporting increased marital conflicts, the social worker should first ask about the couple's styles of coping and their degree of effectiveness. These coping styles are critical to understanding how each individual deals with stress and how those methods are impacting their relationship. Inquiry into coping strategies provides insight into whether their current approaches are functional or contributing to the escalation in marital strife. Additionally, assessing communication can reveal dysfunctional patterns, but understanding their coping mechanisms can offer a more foundational perspective on the relationship dynamics. By addressing this, the social worker can identify the root of the issues and offer suitable recommendations for improving the couple's situation, which may range from individual coping strategies to joint communication enhancement techniques.