Final answer:
The social worker should ask clarifying questions to understand the client's motivation to change behavior, which is the first step of the relapse prevention model. This approach involves non-judgmental engagement and encourages the client to reflect on their reasons for seeking change, allowing the social worker to develop an effective, personalized treatment plan.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the relapse prevention model, the first action a social worker should take is to engage the client in a process of exploration to develop a stronger understanding of their internal motivations and readiness for change. This involves the social worker asking clarifying questions to identify the client's motivation to change his behavior. These questions should be open-ended and prompt the client to reflect on their desires, reasons, and needs for seeking a sober life, without judgment or leading the client to any particular answer, which could influence the reliability of their responses.
For example, the social worker might ask the client what they value most in life, what their goals are, and what has prompted them to seek help now. This approach aligns with anthropological and sociological research, which shows that understanding the client's perspective and establishing trust is fundamental before moving forward with treatment strategies. By doing this, the social worker can gain valuable insights and work collaboratively with the client to develop an effective treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs and personal motivations.