Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

A client is showing signs of distress yet insists “everything is fine.” What is a likely emotional response they are exhibiting?

1. Denial

2. Adaptation

3. Resistance

4. Acceptance

The correct answer is: Denial

The emotional response the client is exhibiting is likely denial. Denial is a defense mechanism where an individual refuses to acknowledge reality or truth, often as a way to protect themselves from distressing emotions or situations. In this scenario, the client is experiencing visible signs of distress but maintains that “everything is fine.” This indicates a disconnect between their outward behavior and their internal emotional state, which is characteristic of denial. When clients express distress but deny the existence of problems, they may be trying to shield themselves from uncomfortable feelings or the implications of confronting their issues. This can prevent them from seeking help or engaging in therapeutic processes, as acknowledgment of their distress is a crucial step toward addressing their emotional needs. The other options represent different emotional states or responses that do not align with the client's behavior in this context. Adaptation refers to an individual’s ability to adjust to new conditions, while resistance typically occurs when a client is unwilling to engage in the therapeutic process. Acceptance denotes a stage where an individual has come to terms with their situation, which contradicts the client's insistence that everything is fine despite clear distress.