Child abuse and neglect are topics that we can say with just about absolute certainty will show up on your ASWB social work licensing exams (whether you are preparing for the LMSW or LCSW exam). These topics can be particularly challenging, especially for those who do not regularly engage in work that involves reporting child abuse or neglect. Our ASWB Social Work Exam programs prepare our users thoroughly in these topics so you can go into the exam feeling confident when these types of questions show up.
How Might Child Abuse and Neglect Show Up on the Exam?
Specific exam questions may cover:
- reporting child abuse or neglect
- when to report vs. when to explore further
- signs of child abuse or neglect
- effects of neglect or abuse
This week’s FREE ASWB social work exam practice question focuses on this very topic. Are you ready for the child abuse and neglect questions on the exam? Let’s find out!
Practice Question:
A school social worker meets with a 13-year-old girl who begins crying in session as she discusses an argument she had with her parents last night. She explains that after she talked back to her mom, her dad hit her. She goes on to say that “it hurt really badly.” What should the social worker do FIRST?
A. File a CPS report
B. Determine the type and severity of the punishment
C. Develop a safety plan
D. Contact the client’s parents
Share your answer and rationale in the comments section below and check back in tomorrow for a discussion of the answer and rationale.
Exam Preparation
Still haven’t signed up for an exam preparation program? Our structured, straightforward approach will provide you with exactly what you need! If you have any questions, feel free to check in with a TDC coach. We are here to support you all along the way!
Comments
I would answer A, and file a report with Child Protection Services, because a lot of questions need to be ask if the child that the report will address, it needs to be determined if the child is safe in the home.
The client had admitted that her father used corporal punishment, which is enough information to "SUSPECT" child abuse and should be reported to the appropriate agency. With that being said, I would go with A.
File a CPS report and it's not responsibility to investigate
But report suspected abuse
A. then you can do C. CPS will be the entity to investigate further.
B. Because of the word "hurt really badly". 13yrs girls usually exaggerate their emotions.
WHAT WAS THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION....I NEVER GOT AN EMAIL CONFIRMING WHAT THE CORRECT CHOICE WAS!!!!!!! ANYONE??
B: The answer and rationale can be found here: https://www.therapistdevelopmentcenter.com/blog/aswb-practice-question-…
I answered with "B" as more information was needed to explore the severity; more in depth about the statement: "It hurt really badly".
B because parents are allowed to spank their children. It does not say child had any try severe injury etc more info would be needed before report
B, the social worker must find out about the severity of the abuse and than file a report.
What if a mother reports that she has never hurt her kids but it has crossed her mind or she is unsure if she would control herself next time, is it require CPS report?
For the test you would want to assess further and put a plan in place should she feel out of control. If it seemed there was imminent risk of harm, we may err on the side of reporting.