Question

A male client comes to a first session with a social worker. When the client sits down he makes little eye contact and seems guarded, awkward, and uncomfortable. What should the social worker do NEXT?

A. Inquire about how the client is feeling
B. Interpret the client's discomfort as a cultural behavior
C. Allow the silence to continue for a brief period of time
D. Initiate an informal, personal conversation

Answer 1

In a situation where a male client shows discomfort and avoids eye contact during a social work session, initiating informal, personal conversation can help ease the client into the session and establish rapport. Observing the client's body language and being sensitive to cultural differences are important for building trust and a supportive therapeutic relationship.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a male client displays discomfort and avoids eye contact in a first session with a social worker, the best course of action is often to initiate an informal, personal conversation. The goal is to create a welcoming environment where the client feels at ease and to demonstrate empathy and non-judgment. This can help dissolve barriers to communication and build the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship. Starting with some light talk or general questions about the client's day or interests can segue into deeper topics, making the whole process seem less intimidating.

Observing the client's body language and reflecting on it without immediate interpretation can provide insights into how to approach the conversation. It is also crucial to be sensitive to potential cultural differences which might be playing a role in the client's behavior. Often, social workers are trained to read these cues and use them to establish rapport and a supportive atmosphere. Cultural norms and unspoken rules shape our interactions, and a keen awareness of these can improve communication in a social work setting.