Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

What should a social worker be most aware of during an initial interview with a woman considering leaving an abusive partner?

1. That the woman may seek reconciliation

2. That men who batter may react violently to seeking help

3. That physical safety is guaranteed during counseling sessions

4. That counseling alone will resolve the situation

The correct answer is: That men who batter may react violently to seeking help

In the context of an initial interview with a woman considering leaving an abusive partner, understanding that men who batter may react violently to seeking help is critically important. This awareness is tied to the dynamics of power and control inherent in abusive relationships. Abusers often feel threatened by the prospect of their partner leaving and may resort to intimidation or violence as a means of maintaining control. It is crucial for the social worker to prioritize the safety of the client by considering that the abuser might monitor or retaliate against any actions that the woman takes toward seeking help or leaving the relationship. This understanding lays the groundwork for creating a safe environment, not only during the counseling sessions but also in the woman’s broader situation. It emphasizes the necessity for the social worker to develop a comprehensive safety plan with the client, taking into account potential risks and the immediate need for safety measures. The other considerations, while important in their own rights, do not capture the urgency and complexity of the situation as power dynamics and potential retaliation do. Seeking reconciliation could be a factor, but it does not address the immediate threats to safety. The idea that physical safety is guaranteed during counseling sessions fails to recognize the unpredictable nature of abusers. Counseling can provide support, but it is not a guaranteed solution to