Question

A client meets with a social worker to discuss parenting a rebellious adolescent. After several sessions, the client shares religious beliefs that support physical punishment. What should the social worker do FIRST? Option 1: Inform the client that physical punishment psychologically harms children Option 2: Validate the client for openly sharing the physical punishment viewpoint Option 3: Request that the client describe the physical punishment practices Option 4: Explore the client's own history of physical punishment during childhood

Answer 1

A social worker should first validate the client's viewpoint on physical punishment, then discuss the negative effects and alternative discipline methods, while understanding the sensitivity of the topic and cultural differences.

(Option 2)

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client discusses parenting a rebellious adolescent and shares religious beliefs that support physical punishment, a social worker should first validate the client for openly sharing their physical punishment viewpoint. This approach establishes trust and encourages further dialogue.

The social worker should then gently and professionally explore alternatives to physical punishment, highlighting evidence that suggests spanking and similar methods may lead to more aggression and antisocial behavior in children. It's also important to differentiate between discipline and physical abuse, and recognize the fine line that exists in perceptions of corporal punishment across different regions and educational backgrounds.