Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

During case termination, which reason is least likely to influence the decision to continue treatment?

1. Client expresses desire for further support

2. Emergence of new, significant presenting problems

3. Completion of initial treatment goals

4. Contractual time limits have been reached

The correct answer is: Completion of initial treatment goals

Completion of initial treatment goals as a reason for terminating treatment is least likely to influence the decision to continue treatment because it represents a clear milestone indicating that the client has achieved the objectives set out at the beginning of the therapeutic process. In social work, when clients successfully meet their treatment goals, it often signals readiness for discharge or transition to a lower level of service. In contrast, a client expressing a desire for further support suggests an ongoing need for assistance, indicating that continuance may be beneficial. Similarly, the emergence of new, significant presenting problems can necessitate further intervention, as these issues may require additional therapeutic work. Finally, reaching contractual time limits can impose a practical constraint on treatment continuity, guiding decisions about whether to extend services based on the established terms of engagement. Each of these factors more strongly suggests a necessity or rationale for continuation than simply having completed initial goals.