Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

Which approach would likely NOT be included in the treatment for a grieving father managing work and parenting?

1. Reassurance about future improvement

2. Encouragement of emotional expression

3. Development of coping strategies

4. Referral to a support group

The correct answer is: Reassurance about future improvement

The approach of providing reassurance about future improvement may not be beneficial in the treatment of a grieving father managing work and parenting. While offering hope can be valuable in many situations, it can unintentionally minimize the individual's current feelings of loss and grief. Grief is a profound and personal experience that requires acknowledgment and validation rather than a premature focus on recovery or improvement. In contrast, encouraging emotional expression allows the father to process his grief in a healthy manner, which is crucial for emotional healing. Supporting the development of coping strategies equips him with practical tools to manage the stressors of parenting and work amidst his grief. Additionally, a referral to a support group can connect him with others facing similar challenges, providing him with community support and shared understanding which aids in the grief process. Each of these approaches prioritizes the father's immediate emotional needs and helps him navigate his complex feelings effectively.