Question 1

Which of the following is not true of a theory?

Accepted Answer

The truth of a theory is not dependent on the agreement of the majority of people in a profession, as scientific theories are always subject to change and revision based on new evidence and research. Therefore, choice D is not true of a theory.

Question 2

Explain how social work differs from other helping professions, such as psychology.

Accepted Answer

Social work differs from other helping professions, such as psychology, in several key ways.

First, social work is focused on the broader social context in which individuals and families live, including their relationships, communities, and societal structures. This means that social workers are trained to address not only individual mental health issues, but also systemic issues such as poverty, discrimination, and access to resources.

Second, social work emphasizes a strengths-based approach, meaning that social workers seek to empower their clients by building on their existing strengths and resources. This is in contrast to some other helping professions, such as psychology, which may focus more on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.

Additionally, social workers often work with clients who are facing significant life challenges, such as homelessness, domestic violence, or substance abuse. This requires social workers to be skilled in crisis intervention and advocacy, as well as in connecting clients with community resources and support services.

Finally, social work is guided by a code of ethics that emphasizes social justice, human rights, and the dignity and worth of all individuals. This ethical framework informs the way that social workers approach their work and advocate for their clients, and sets social work apart from other helping professions in its commitment to social change and advocacy.

Question 3

Discuss what is meant by the "Diversity Perspective" in social work, and why it is important.

Accepted Answer

The "Diversity Perspective" in social work refers to the recognition and appreciation of the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and identities of individuals and communities. It involves understanding and valuing the unique characteristics and differences that exist among people, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, and socioeconomic status.

In social work, the Diversity Perspective is important because it promotes inclusivity, equity, and social justice. By acknowledging and respecting the diversity of clients and communities, social workers can better understand their needs and provide more effective and culturally competent services. This perspective also helps to challenge and address systemic inequalities and discrimination that may exist within society.

Furthermore, the Diversity Perspective in social work encourages collaboration and partnership with individuals and communities, as well as the integration of diverse perspectives and voices in decision-making processes. This can lead to more holistic and comprehensive approaches to addressing social issues and promoting positive change.

Overall, the Diversity Perspective is essential in social work because it fosters a more inclusive and empowering practice that respects and celebrates the richness of human diversity. It helps to ensure that all individuals and communities receive the support and resources they need to thrive, regardless of their background or identity.

Question 4

Discuss the conflict that might arise between the ethical principles of a client's right to privacy and confidentiality, and a client's right to self determination. Provide an example of when these two principles might come into conflict.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Discuss the conflict that might arise between...

Question 5

If a human service worker has not completed an accredited social work program and met licensure or certification requirements, they are not professional social workers

Accepted Answer

Professional social workers must have completed an accredited social work program and met licensure or certification requirements. Without meeting these requirements, a human service worker cannot be considered a professional social worker.

Question 6

Social workers' primary goal is to help people in need and to address social problems

Accepted Answer

This is the main purpose of social work, as stated by the National Association of Social Workers.

Question 7

Briefly discuss why it might be challenging to pursue social work as a career if you disagree with many of the values and ethics found in the Social Work Code of Ethics.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Briefly discuss why it might be challenging...

Question 8

Describe what is meant by "Person in Environment" and discuss how it is central to social work practice.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Describe what is meant by "Person in...

Question 9

Most social workers work for the government.

Accepted Answer

Most social workers are employed by private organizations, non-profits, or healthcare facilities, although a significant number do work for government agencies.

Question 10

The ecological systems framework focuses on interactions and transactions between people and their surroundings.

Accepted Answer

The ecological systems framework, also known as the ecological systems theory, emphasizes the dynamic relationships between individuals and their various environments, including family, community, culture, and society at large. This model recognizes the intricate interplay between people and their surroundings, and how these interactions can impact development, behavior, and well-being.

Question 11

If a social worker determines that a person is struggling with a problem that is caused by something in that person's environment, they are most likely to take a:

Accepted Answer

A macro approach focuses on addressing the larger societal or environmental factors that contribute to an individual's problem. In this case, if the problem is caused by something in the person's environment, a macro approach would be the most appropriate way to address it. This could involve advocating for policy changes, community organizing efforts, or other systemic interventions. Micro approaches focus on individual-level interventions, while psychoanalytic approaches are focused on the internal psychological dynamics of the individual. A confrontational approach is rarely effective in social work practice.

Question 12

Which of the following is a theoretical framework commonly used by social workers?

Accepted Answer

The Strengths Perspective is a theoretical framework commonly used by social workers. It focuses on identifying and utilizing the strengths and resources of individuals, families, and communities to promote positive change. The other options listed (Ethical Perspective, Oppositional Perspective, and Psychoanalytic Perspective) may be relevant to social work practice in certain situations, but they are not as commonly used as the Strengths Perspective.

Question 13

Cultural competence in social work practice refers to the fact that social workers:

Accepted Answer

Cultural competence in social work practice requires social workers to develop behaviors, knowledge, skills, and attitudes to work effectively with people from diverse cultures. This includes understanding cultural differences, being aware of their own biases and values, and incorporating cultural sensitivity into their practice. Social workers should also look for strengths in the people they work with, regardless of their background or culture, as a way to promote empowerment and resilience. Working only with people who are similar or have less power would be a violation of social work ethics and principles of social justice.

Question 14

Social workers must learn to tolerate some ambiguity in resolving ethical conflicts

Accepted Answer

Ethical dilemmas in social work often involve conflicting values and competing priorities, and there may not always be a clear or straightforward answer. Social workers must learn to tolerate ambiguity and engage in a process of ethical decision-making that involves careful reflection, consultation with peers and colleagues, and weighing the potential risks and benefits of different courses of action.

Question 15

The strengths perspective focuses on teaching clients new skills in order to strengthen their lives.​

Accepted Answer

The strengths perspective emphasizes identifying, utilizing, and building upon the existing strengths and resources of clients, rather than focusing primarily on teaching new skills.

Question 16

Social justice can be described as:

Accepted Answer

Social justice refers to the level of fairness that exists in society, where everyone is entitled to equal rights and opportunities regardless of their social class, race, gender, or religion. It is about creating a just and equitable society where every individual is treated with dignity and respect. It is not solely for the rich or poor, but for everyone. Choice A and B are incorrect as social justice is not limited to one particular group, but rather a concept that benefits society as a whole. Choice D is also incorrect as respecting the uniqueness of individuals is important, but it does not fully encompass the broad concept of social justice.

Quiz 1: What Is Social Work