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

Which emotional response should be a primary focus for a client who has lost a significant other and faced job loss?

1. Increased aggression towards others

2. Feelings of isolation and hopelessness

3. Pressure to find new employment

4. Grief management in relationships

The correct answer is: Feelings of isolation and hopelessness

Focusing on feelings of isolation and hopelessness is crucial for a client who has experienced significant losses, such as the death of a significant other and job loss. These emotional responses are common during mourning and can deeply affect the individual's mental health and overall well-being. Isolation can lead to further depression, exacerbating grief and hindering the healing process. When a person feels hopeless, they may struggle to see a path forward or feel that their situation can improve. Addressing these feelings is essential in therapy, as it allows the therapist to provide support, validate the client’s emotions, and help develop coping strategies. While the other options are related to the client's situation, they do not target the core emotional struggles as effectively. Increased aggression may reflect other underlying issues but isn't as central to the grief process, while the pressure to find new employment may serve as a secondary concern rather than the immediate emotional response that needs addressing. Lastly, while grief management in relationships is important, the immediate emotional responses of isolation and hopelessness are often more pertinent to explore first in therapy settings during such significant losses.