LMSW Practice Test

What is a primary focus of the Strengths Perspective in social work practice?

1. Analyzing past traumas to avoid future issues

2. Emphasizing community resources and supports

3. Identifying and building upon clients' inherent abilities and resources

4. Strictly adhering to clinical interventions and treatments

The correct answer is: Analyzing past traumas to avoid future issues

The primary focus of the Strengths Perspective in social work practice is to identify and build upon the unique abilities and resources of each client. This approach believes that focusing on a client's strengths and resources, rather than their deficits, can empower them and lead to more successful outcomes. Option A, analyzing past traumas, is not a main focus of the Strengths Perspective as it tends to pathologize the client and focuses on their problems rather than their strengths. Option B, emphasizing community resources and supports, is a more general approach and does not specifically focus on the client's inherent abilities. Option D, strictly adhering to clinical interventions and treatments, is not in line with the Strengths Perspective as it may not take into account the client's individual strengths and resources.