Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What are common consequences of parents discouraging emotional expression in children?

1. Social withdrawal

2. High academic achievement

3. Acting-out behavior and somatization

4. Increased emotional intelligence

The correct answer is: Acting-out behavior and somatization

The answer accurately identifies common consequences of parents discouraging emotional expression in children. When parents suppress their children's ability to communicate and express their emotions, it can lead to a variety of negative outcomes. Acting-out behavior often manifests as a way for children to cope with their internalized emotions, as they may not have been taught how to express feelings appropriately. This behavior might include aggression, tantrums, or defiance as the child struggles to manage unexpressed feelings. Somatization, where psychological distress manifests as physical symptoms, is another common response. Children may develop illnesses or express discomfort that has no medical explanation, indicating that their emotional needs are not being addressed adequately. This can further complicate their emotional and mental health as they learn to associate feelings with physical symptoms rather than with appropriate emotional expression. In contrast, discouragement of emotional expression does not promote high academic achievement, as emotional awareness can play a substantial role in a child's ability to engage in learning, work collaboratively with peers, and manage stress related to school tasks. Furthermore, the result is not an increase in emotional intelligence; rather, children may struggle with understanding their emotions and those of others, as they have not been afforded the opportunity to develop these skills. Overall, the implications of discouraging