Question

In a treatment session, a client diagnosed with social anxiety disorder discusses having joined a new community group whose members are picketing to protest the local library's current policy for book purchases. The social worker personally agrees with the library's current policy. The social worker should:

A. explain why the policy should stay as it is
B. explore other ways to advocate for policy changes
C. advise the library staff about the new group
D. discuss the pros and cons of joining the group

Answer 1

The appropriate response for a social worker who personally agrees with a library's policy that his client is protesting against is to discuss the pros and cons of joining the group. This maintains a neutral and professional stance while supporting the client's autonomy.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a treatment session, a client diagnosed with social anxiety disorder is discussing their participation in a new community group that is protesting against the library's policy for book purchases. The social worker personally agrees with the library's current policy. In this scenario, the appropriate professional action for the social worker would be option D: discuss the pros and cons of joining the group with the client. This approach respects the client’s autonomy while also helping them to think critically about their choices and the potential impact of their actions on their well-being. The social worker should remain neutral and refrain from imposing personal views on the client, in accordance with ethical practice standards for social work.

Other treatment options like applied behavior analysis (ABA), social communication groups, social skills groups, occupational therapy, and medication options could also be explored as part of the client's overall treatment plan, but always ensuring that the client's needs and autonomy are central to any decision made.