Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

What initial consideration should a school social worker have for a child who is disruptive in class?

1. Behavioral issues at home

2. Learning disordered

3. Emotional struggles

4. Lack of motivation

The correct answer is: Learning disordered

When evaluating a child who is disruptive in class, understanding whether the child has learning disorders is crucial. Learning disorders can manifest as difficulties in processing information, which often affects a child's ability to follow classroom instructions and engage with the material. Such challenges may lead to frustration, causing the child to act out in disruptive ways as a form of coping or as a response to their struggles. Identifying potential learning disorders allows the school social worker to consider appropriate interventions and support that could help improve the child's educational experience and reduce disruptive behavior. This focus on learning challenges is essential because addressing the root cause—rather than merely the symptoms of disruption—can lead to more effective and supportive strategies tailored to the needs of the child. While behavioral issues at home, emotional struggles, and lack of motivation are important factors to consider in a holistic assessment of the child, the initial focus on potential learning disorders provides a framework for understanding the child's behavior in the context of their educational environment. By prioritizing the assessment of learning disorders, social workers can advocate for necessary evaluations and interventions that may significantly impact the child’s academic success and social integration.