Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What characterizes assertive casework?

1. Providing long-term follow-up support

2. Asking probing questions with direct interventions

3. Using only open-ended questions

4. Focusing solely on client’s strengths

The correct answer is: Asking probing questions with direct interventions

Assertive casework is characterized by a dynamic and proactive approach where the caseworker actively engages with the client to identify needs, establish goals, and facilitate change. One of the key elements is the use of probing questions paired with direct interventions, which allows the caseworker to gain a deeper understanding of the client’s situation and tailor support effectively. This direct interaction helps in clarifying issues, exploring underlying problems, and guiding the client towards actionable solutions. While flexibility and responsiveness to client needs are important, the emphasis on direct engagement through questioning facilitates a more vigorous and effective intervention strategy. This approach contrasts sharply with only using open-ended questions, which may not solicit concise information necessary for creating targeted interventions. Similarly, focusing solely on a client's strengths without engaging them in a dialogue can miss critical areas that require attention. Providing long-term follow-up support is essential but is typically part of the overall process rather than a defining characteristic of assertive casework itself.