Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What is one goal in treating a person diagnosed with a personality disorder?

1. Promote ego-syntonic traits

2. Make the ego-syntonic trait ego-alien

3. Encourage maladaptive behaviors

4. Eliminate all emotions

The correct answer is: Make the ego-syntonic trait ego-alien

The objective of making an ego-syntonic trait ego-alien in the treatment of a person diagnosed with a personality disorder is based on the understanding of how personality disorders function. Ego-syntonic traits are those behaviors, attitudes, or values that an individual perceives as acceptable and consistent with their self-image. In contrast, ego-alien traits are those aspects that contradict an individual's self-perception and can lead to discomfort. By shifting these traits from being ego-syntonic to ego-alien, the treatment aims to help the individual recognize that distorted or maladaptive thoughts and behaviors are not an integral part of who they are. This process allows the client to identify these traits as problematic and encourages a willingness to change. The goal here is to bring about awareness, insight, and ultimately promote healthier functioning and self-perception. In therapy, fostering this awareness is crucial as it can lead to motivation for change, which is often a significant hurdle when working with individuals who may not readily see their patterns as problematic due to their ego-syntonic nature. By disrupting the acceptance of maladaptive behaviors, therapy can facilitate healthier coping mechanisms and interpersonal dynamics, leading to better overall mental health and functioning.