Question 1

When should a case manager introduce difficult issues: early in the relationship with a client or later?

Accepted Answer

When a case manager should introduce difficult issues to a client depends on several factors, including the nature of the issue, the client's readiness to address it, the urgency of the situation, and the established trust between the case manager and the client. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some considerations that can guide a case manager's decision:

1. **Assess Client Readiness**: Before introducing a difficult issue, it's important to gauge the client's readiness to discuss and deal with the problem. If the client is not psychologically or emotionally prepared, it may be more appropriate to wait until they have developed the necessary coping skills and trust in the case manager.

2. **Build Trust**: Trust is a critical component of the case manager-client relationship. It may be beneficial to spend the initial phase of the relationship building trust and rapport. Once a solid foundation is established, the client may be more receptive to discussing challenging issues.

3. **Consider Urgency**: If the difficult issue is time-sensitive and delaying the conversation could have negative consequences, it may be necessary to address it early on. For example, if the issue involves immediate safety concerns or legal deadlines, it should be prioritized.

4. **Gradual Approach**: Sometimes, it's best to introduce difficult issues gradually. A case manager can start with less challenging topics and work up to more difficult conversations as the relationship strengthens and the client becomes more comfortable.

5. **Client-Centered Approach**: The case manager should always consider the client's preferences and needs. Some clients may prefer to tackle difficult issues right away, while others may need more time. It's important to involve the client in the decision-making process and respect their pace.

6. **Professional Judgment**: Case managers should use their professional judgment and experience to determine the best time to introduce difficult issues. They should consider the client's history, personality, cultural background, and other relevant factors.

7. **Support Systems**: Ensure that appropriate support systems are in place before bringing up difficult issues. This could include mental health services, community resources, or support groups that can provide additional assistance to the client.

In summary, the timing of introducing difficult issues should be carefully considered and tailored to each client's unique situation. A case manager must balance the need to address important issues with the client's readiness and the strength of the therapeutic relationship. It's often a delicate balance that requires sensitivity, patience, and good judgment.

Question 2

A case manager should focus on tangible behavior.What does tangible mean?

Accepted Answer

In the context of the statement "A case manager should focus on tangible behavior," the word "tangible" refers to behavior that is observable, measurable, and concrete. Tangible behaviors are actions that can be seen and documented, as opposed to thoughts, feelings, or attitudes, which are intangible and more subjective in nature.

When a case manager focuses on tangible behavior, they are paying attention to specific actions and outcomes that can be quantified or clearly identified. This might include tracking attendance at appointments, monitoring compliance with a treatment plan, observing changes in a client's activities of daily living, or recording instances of a particular behavior.

Focusing on tangible behavior is important for case managers because it allows them to assess progress, set goals, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in a clear and objective way. It also helps in communicating with other professionals involved in a client's care, as it provides a common language based on observable facts rather than subjective interpretations.

Question 3

In order to make an I-message effective,the clinician should:

Accepted Answer

I-messages are most effective when they include a suggestion for a solution but also open the floor for the client to offer their own solutions. This approach fosters collaboration and respects the client's autonomy and perspective.

Question 4

What is one of the 4 parts in constructing an "I" messages when addressing difficult issues with a client?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is one of the 4 parts...

Question 5

Asking the client permission to share your ideas with him or her allows the clinician to:

Accepted Answer

Asking the client permission to share ideas shows respect for the client's autonomy and decision-making abilities. It allows the clinician to provide suggestions while still leaving the final decision-making power in the client's hands. It also helps establish a collaborative and respectful relationship between the clinician and client. Choices A, B, and D do not accurately reflect the purpose and benefits of asking for permission to share ideas.

Question 6

What is wrong with the following statement: "You are not listening to me.I feel that you would be better off if you went to rehab."

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is wrong with the following statement:...

Question 7

"The way it appears,housing certainly isn't a high priority for you! You never follow through" is an example of a(n):

Accepted Answer

This statement is an example of an inappropriate confrontation because it includes a judgment or criticism of the person's behavior or priorities, rather than focusing on the speaker's feelings or needs.

Question 8

In the social services,confrontation is used:

Accepted Answer

Confrontation, in the context of social services, is used by the clinician to bring concerns out in the open in order to gain a better understanding of the client's perspective, behavior, and motivations. It is a therapeutic technique aimed at helping the client explore and clarify their thoughts and feelings, identify patterns of behavior that may be problematic, and work towards change. Confrontation is not about expressing anger, blame, or criticism towards the client. It is a gentle, non-judgmental approach that seeks to foster empathy, trust, and collaboration between the clinician and the client.

Question 9

"I feel that talking about your husband's sudden death with your relatives will be very helpful" is an example of:

Accepted Answer

The answer of "I feel that talking about your husband's...

Question 10

The clinician would like to make the I-message less threatening to the client and accomplishes this by:

Accepted Answer

Collaborating with the client would involve expressing the clinician's thoughts and feelings in a way that shows they respect the client's perspective and are working together to find a solution. This approach is less threatening than judging the client's motives or providing a solution without the client's input. Appeasing the client is not recommended as it can generate confusion and undermine the therapeutic relationship.

Question 11

At times,the clinician must advocate for the client by confronting others who may be interfering with the clinician's ability to interact effectively with the client.The clinician's message in this case must be:

Accepted Answer

The clinician should always maintain a professional and respectful demeanor, even when confronting others who may be interfering with their ability to work effectively with the client. Being pleasant but firm in conveying the message can help maintain a positive working relationship with others while also advocating for the client's best interests. Options A and B may not sufficiently convey the gravity of the situation, while option C may be too aggressive and unprofessional.

Question 12

The clinician uses confrontation because:

Accepted Answer

The answer of The clinician uses confrontation because:
...

Question 13

A confrontation usually takes the form of a(n):

Accepted Answer

A confrontation should use an I-message approach, where the focus is on expressing one's own feelings and thoughts, rather than attacking or accusing the other person with a You-message. This approach promotes open communication and can lead to a productive resolution.

Question 14

When a case manager needs to express a firmer message,there are 4 steps to the process.Describe them.

Accepted Answer

The answer of When a case manager needs to express...

Question 15

Confrontation is sometimes necessary when:

Accepted Answer

Confrontation may be necessary if there is a discrepancy between what the client is saying and their body language, as it may indicate that they are not fully truthful or in touch with their emotions. It can provide an opportunity for the client to reflect on their behavior and motivations. However, it should be done in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. Confrontation is not typically used for clients experiencing schizophrenic symptoms or those who continue drinking while in therapy, as these issues may require a different approach. If a client asks for assistance but the clinician has made no headway in finding a solution, it may be more appropriate to explore new strategies or seek advice from a supervisor or colleague.

Question 16

What part of the following statement is the case manager's opinion: "I will honor your request but I feel you are avoiding a real source of help."

Accepted Answer

The answer of What part of the following statement is...

Question 17

Name one of the 5 reasons outlined in the book for addressing discrepancies with a client.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Name one of the 5 reasons outlined...

Question 18

Correct the following statement to reflect the steps outlined in Ch 10: "You really should think about what you are about to do.It might be dangerous."

Accepted Answer

The answer of Correct the following statement to reflect the...

Quiz 10: Bringing up Difficult Issues