Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

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Study for the Social Work Examination Services (SWES) exam. Access insightful questions and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding. Prepare for your future as a social worker effectively!

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In the case of a runaway 14-year-old girl, what should the intake worker prioritize initially?

Report the girl to the authorities
Encourage the discussion of taboo subjects
Contact her family for more information
Create a safety plan for her return home

The correct answer is: Encourage the discussion of taboo subjects

In addressing the situation of a runaway 14-year-old girl, prioritizing the encouragement of discussion around taboo subjects is fundamentally important. This approach fosters a trusting and open environment where the girl may feel comfortable sharing her feelings, experiences, and the underlying reasons for her running away. Engaging her in a supportive conversation allows the intake worker to better understand her circumstances, emotional state, and any potential risks she may be facing. It respects her autonomy and acknowledges her need to express herself, which can be crucial for effective intervention. Utilizing this strategy lays the groundwork for developing a therapeutic relationship, which can be essential for any subsequent interventions or support services that may be considered. By focusing on the girl’s emotional and psychological needs, the intake worker can gather vital information that informs appropriate and sensitive next steps in her care and safety.