Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What should a social worker avoid acting on in the social work relationship?

1. Client resistance

2. Countertransference reaction

3. Transference relationship

4. Emotional burnout

The correct answer is: Countertransference reaction

In the context of the social work relationship, being aware of and managing countertransference is critical for maintaining an effective and professional connection with clients. Countertransference refers to the emotional reactions that a social worker may have towards a client, which can stem from the worker’s own unresolved issues or experiences that resonate with the client's circumstances. When a social worker acts on countertransference reactions, it can cloud their judgment and lead to inappropriate responses that may negatively affect the therapeutic process. It can also compromise the objectivity needed to support the client in a neutral and helpful manner. The goal in social work is to create a safe and supportive environment for clients, allowing them to express themselves and explore their issues without the influence of the social worker's personal emotional responses. Being mindful of a countertransference reaction allows social workers to reflect on their feelings and how these feelings might impact their work. Instead of acting on these feelings, they should seek supervision, peer support, or personal therapy to process and understand these reactions appropriately. This understanding helps maintain professional boundaries and focuses on the client’s needs rather than the social worker's unresolved issues. In contrast, client resistance, transference relationships, and emotional burnout are factors that might arise in social work but don’t