LMSW Practice Test

If a child expresses extreme reluctance to go home and fear of parents, what should be the primary concern of a social worker?

1. Parental guidance on child behavior management

2. Ensuring child safety and investigating potential abuse

3. Providing family counseling

4. Investigating the child's school environment for bullying issues

The correct answer is: Parental guidance on child behavior management

In the scenario where a child shows extreme reluctance to go home and expresses fear of their parents, the primary concern of a social worker should focus on ensuring the child's safety and investigating potential abuse. When a child demonstrates such significant distress regarding returning home, it often raises red flags about the home environment. This distress could be indicative of various forms of maltreatment, including physical, emotional, or verbal abuse. The child's safety must always be the top priority; therefore, it is crucial for the social worker to assess the situation accurately and thoroughly, which could involve interviewing the child in a safe environment, gathering information from caregivers, and potentially involving the appropriate child protective services. While parental guidance on child behavior management, family counseling, and investigations related to the school environment can be important, they would be secondary to immediately ensuring the child's safety in light of the alarming signs of fear and reluctance. Addressing potential abuse takes precedence to protect the child's wellbeing.