Bachelor Level Flashcard: Assessment and Intervention Planning

What is the first step in the assessment process in social work?

The first step is to gather information about the client’s needs, strengths, and challenges through interviews, observations, and records review.

What is a biopsychosocial assessment?

A biopsychosocial assessment evaluates the biological, psychological, and social factors affecting a client's well-being.

What is the purpose of a genogram in assessment?

A genogram is used to map family relationships, patterns, and dynamics to identify factors influencing a client’s situation.

What is a key consideration when conducting a risk assessment for self-harm?

Identify immediate risk factors, protective factors, and the client’s level of suicidal ideation or plan.

What is the goal of intervention planning in social work?

To develop a structured approach that addresses the client’s identified problems, aligns with their goals, and leverages their strengths.

How does a strengths-based assessment differ from traditional assessments?

It focuses on identifying and utilizing the client’s strengths and resources rather than solely addressing deficits or problems.

What is the purpose of SMART goals in intervention planning?

SMART goals ensure goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, improving clarity and accountability.

What is the difference between subjective and objective data in assessment?

Subjective data includes the client’s reported feelings and experiences, while objective data is based on observable facts or evidence.

What is an ecological assessment?

An ecological assessment evaluates how environmental systems, such as family, community, and social services, influence the client’s well-being.

Why is cultural competence important in assessment?

It ensures that the assessment process is respectful, accurate, and inclusive of the client’s cultural background and values.

What role does informed consent play in assessment?

Informed consent ensures the client understands and agrees to the assessment process, respecting their autonomy and legal rights.

What is the purpose of a risk assessment in social work?

To identify and evaluate potential risks to the client or others, such as harm, neglect, or abuse, and develop strategies to address them.

What is the difference between short-term and long-term goals in intervention planning?

Short-term goals focus on immediate needs and steps, while long-term goals address overarching issues and desired outcomes.

What is the role of evidence-based practice in intervention planning?

It involves using research and proven methods to select interventions that are most likely to be effective for the client’s situation.

How does a social worker prioritize problems during the assessment process?

By addressing safety concerns first, followed by high-impact issues and the client’s prioritized concerns.

What is a service plan in social work?

A written document outlining the client’s goals, the services to be provided, and the timeline for achieving the goals.

What is motivational interviewing, and how is it used in assessment?

Motivational interviewing is a client-centered approach that helps explore and resolve ambivalence to facilitate change.

What is the purpose of a needs assessment?

To identify the gaps between a client’s current situation and their desired goals, guiding resource allocation and service planning.

How does a social worker assess for substance use disorders?

By using screening tools, interviews, and collateral information to evaluate the extent of use, its impact, and the client’s readiness for change.

What is the importance of goal setting in intervention planning?

Goals provide direction, measure progress, and ensure both the client and social worker have a shared understanding of desired outcomes.

What is a functional assessment in social work?

It evaluates a client’s ability to perform daily living activities, such as self-care, mobility, and social interactions.

How does a social worker identify client strengths during assessment?

By exploring the client’s skills, resources, past successes, and support systems to build resilience and empower change.

What is the purpose of a mental status exam (MSE)?

To assess a client’s cognitive, emotional, and psychological functioning through observation and structured questioning.

What is a collateral interview in social work assessment?

It involves gathering information from other sources, such as family members, teachers, or medical professionals, to complement the client’s self-report.

What is the difference between formal and informal assessments?

Formal assessments use standardized tools and tests, while informal assessments rely on observations and client interactions.

What is a baseline assessment, and why is it important?

It establishes the client’s starting point for measuring progress and determining the effectiveness of interventions.

How can cultural biases affect the assessment process?

Cultural biases can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or inappropriate interventions if the social worker does not consider the client’s cultural context.

What is the purpose of an ecological perspective in assessment?

To understand how the interactions between a client and their environment affect their challenges and opportunities for growth.

What is an interdisciplinary team, and how does it contribute to assessment and planning?

An interdisciplinary team includes professionals from various fields who collaborate to provide a comprehensive assessment and intervention plan.

What is the significance of client self-determination in assessment?

It respects the client’s right to make their own decisions and ensures that their goals and preferences guide the process.

What is an ecomap, and how is it used in assessment?

An ecomap visually represents a client’s relationships with their environment, highlighting supports and stressors.

What is the difference between structured and unstructured interviews in assessment?

Structured interviews follow a specific set of questions, while unstructured interviews allow for more open-ended, client-led discussions.

How does a strengths-based perspective influence intervention planning?

It focuses on leveraging the client’s inherent abilities and resources to address challenges and achieve goals.

What is a contingency plan in social work intervention?

A contingency plan outlines alternative strategies to address potential obstacles or emergencies during the intervention process.

What role do advocacy skills play in assessment and intervention planning?

Advocacy ensures that clients’ needs and rights are represented and addressed within systems and service plans.

How do ethical principles guide the assessment process?

They ensure confidentiality, respect for the client’s dignity, and impartiality while collecting and using assessment data.

What is the purpose of case notes during assessment?

Case notes document observations, findings, and decisions, providing a record for ongoing evaluation and planning.

What is the importance of using evidence-based assessment tools?

They increase the reliability and validity of the assessment, leading to more accurate and effective intervention planning.

What is the difference between direct and indirect assessments?

Direct assessments involve observing or interacting with the client, while indirect assessments use secondary sources like records or collateral interviews.

How does a social worker evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention plan?

By regularly reviewing progress toward goals, adjusting strategies as needed, and obtaining client feedback.

What is the role of active listening in the assessment process?

Active listening builds rapport, ensures accurate understanding of the client’s concerns, and fosters trust in the relationship.

What is a psychosocial assessment?

It evaluates the psychological and social aspects of a client’s life, including mental health, relationships, and environmental factors.

How can social workers identify implicit biases during assessment?

By engaging in self-reflection, seeking supervision, and using culturally informed practices to minimize assumptions and stereotypes.

What is the difference between short-term and crisis interventions?

Short-term interventions address immediate needs over weeks or months, while crisis interventions focus on stabilizing a client during an acute emergency.

What is the purpose of a goal hierarchy in intervention planning?

It prioritizes goals from most urgent to least, ensuring that immediate needs are addressed before long-term objectives.

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative assessment methods?

Qualitative methods explore subjective experiences and narratives, while quantitative methods use measurable data and statistics.

How does trauma-informed care influence assessment?

It ensures that the assessment process is sensitive to a client’s trauma history, prioritizing safety, empowerment, and avoiding retraumatization.

What is the purpose of a strengths inventory in assessment?

To document a client’s personal, social, and community strengths that can support their goals and intervention plan.

How do social workers assess a client’s readiness for change?

By using models like the stages of change (e.g., precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance).

What is the significance of congruence in the client-social worker relationship?

Congruence ensures that the social worker’s actions and words align, fostering trust and authenticity in the relationship.

What is a behavioral assessment, and when is it used?

It evaluates specific behaviors, their triggers, and consequences, often used for clients with behavioral challenges or disorders.

How do social workers use observation in assessment?

By noting nonverbal cues, behavior patterns, and interactions to gain insights beyond what is verbally expressed.

What is a life domain assessment?

It examines multiple areas of a client’s life, such as health, housing, education, and employment, to identify strengths and needs.

What is the role of cultural humility in intervention planning?

It encourages social workers to remain open, self-aware, and respectful of the client’s cultural values and perspectives.

How is a social history used in assessment?

It provides an overview of a client’s background, including family, education, employment, and social relationships, to inform intervention planning.

What is the purpose of progress monitoring in intervention planning?

To track the client’s advancements toward their goals and determine if adjustments to the plan are needed.

How do ethical dilemmas arise during assessment and planning?

Conflicts can occur between a client’s autonomy and the social worker’s duty to protect or between competing client interests.

What is a client’s ecological footprint in assessment?

It refers to the client’s use of environmental resources and their impact on the community and surroundings.

How do social workers ensure assessments are client-centered?

By actively involving the client in setting goals, identifying priorities, and making decisions throughout the process.

What is the purpose of discharge planning in intervention?

To ensure a smooth transition from services, providing resources and strategies for continued support after the intervention ends.

What is the purpose of using standardized assessment tools?

Standardized tools provide consistent, reliable, and validated measures for evaluating specific client needs or conditions.

What is the significance of the client’s support system in assessment?

A strong support system can act as a protective factor and resource for achieving goals and overcoming challenges.

What is a crisis assessment?

A crisis assessment evaluates the severity and immediacy of a client’s crisis to develop a stabilization plan.

How do social workers address barriers to service during intervention planning?

By identifying obstacles like transportation, language, or financial constraints and finding strategies or resources to overcome them.

Why is cultural competence important in assessing diverse populations?

It ensures the assessment process is respectful, inclusive, and free of biases, leading to more accurate and effective plans.

What is an empowerment approach to intervention planning?

It focuses on building the client’s confidence, skills, and resources to take control of their situation and achieve their goals.

What is a functional behavioral assessment (FBA)?

An FBA identifies the purpose of specific behaviors by analyzing triggers, consequences, and patterns to guide interventions.

How do social workers assess environmental factors in a client’s life?

By evaluating housing, safety, access to resources, and community support systems that affect well-being.

What is a dual relationship, and why must it be avoided during assessment?

A dual relationship occurs when a social worker has another relationship with a client outside of their professional one, risking bias or conflict of interest.

What is the purpose of a skills inventory in assessment?

To identify a client’s abilities and talents that can be leveraged to achieve their goals.

How do social workers assess for substance use readiness to change?

By exploring the client’s awareness of their use, motivation for change, and barriers to achieving sobriety.

What is the difference between immediate and ongoing assessments?

Immediate assessments focus on urgent issues, while ongoing assessments track progress and refine goals over time.

How does reflective listening support the assessment process?

It ensures the social worker understands the client’s perspective and builds trust by validating their experiences.

What is an advocacy-based approach to intervention planning?

It prioritizes addressing systemic barriers and injustices that affect the client’s ability to meet their goals.

How do social workers evaluate a client’s coping mechanisms?

By identifying strategies the client uses to handle stress and determining whether they are adaptive or maladaptive.

What is a discharge summary in social work?

A document that outlines the client’s progress, completed goals, and recommendations for continued support post-intervention.

Why is goal specificity important in intervention planning?

Specific goals provide clarity, focus, and measurable outcomes for both the client and the social worker.

How does a trauma-informed approach affect intervention planning?

It ensures the plan prioritizes safety, avoids triggering trauma responses, and supports healing.

What is a client’s right to self-determination?

The client’s right to make their own choices and decisions about their goals and interventions, even if the social worker disagrees.

How does a social worker determine the appropriateness of a referral?

By assessing the client’s needs, the service provider’s capacity, and the client’s consent and readiness for the referral.

What is the purpose of a safety plan in social work?

To provide specific steps and resources for a client to follow during crises, ensuring their protection and well-being.

What is a client-centered approach to assessment?

An approach that actively involves the client in identifying their needs, goals, and priorities.

How do social workers address ethical dilemmas in intervention planning?

By applying the NASW Code of Ethics, consulting with supervisors, and prioritizing the client’s best interests.

What is the significance of measurable outcomes in intervention plans?

Measurable outcomes provide a clear way to track progress and determine the success of interventions.

What role does family involvement play in intervention planning?

Family involvement can provide additional support, insights, and resources for the client’s goals.

How does a social worker evaluate progress in intervention planning?

By reviewing goals, discussing changes with the client, and analyzing outcome measures regularly.

What is the purpose of using culturally sensitive language during assessment?

To respect the client’s identity and ensure that communication is inclusive and appropriate.

How does collaboration enhance the intervention planning process?

Collaboration ensures that the client, social worker, and other stakeholders work together toward shared goals.

Why is flexibility important in intervention planning?

Flexibility allows social workers to adapt plans as the client’s needs and circumstances change.

What is the role of supervision during assessment and intervention?

Supervision provides guidance, accountability, and support to ensure ethical and effective practice.

How do social workers ensure client empowerment during assessment?

By involving the client in decision-making and validating their strengths and capabilities.

What is the purpose of ongoing assessment in long-term interventions?

To monitor the client’s progress and adjust the intervention plan as needed.

What is the role of confidentiality in the assessment process?

To protect the client’s private information and ensure trust in the client-social worker relationship.

How does crisis intervention differ from general intervention planning?

Crisis intervention focuses on immediate stabilization, while general planning addresses longer-term goals.

What is the significance of the NASW Code of Ethics in assessment?

It guides social workers in conducting ethical, professional, and client-centered assessments.

What is an experimental design?

A research design where participants are randomly assigned to groups, and an independent variable is manipulated to observe its effect on a dependent variable.

What is a quasi-experimental design?

A research design that lacks random assignment but includes an intervention and comparison to assess causal relationships.

Name three types of antidepressants.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Hoarding Disorder

Persistent difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of value. • Example: Living in cluttered conditions due to excessive saving.

Substance Use Disorder

Problematic use of substances leading to impairment or distress. • Example: Continued alcohol use despite relationship and work problems.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Brain dysfunction caused by external force (e.g., fall, accident). • Symptoms: Confusion, memory loss, mood changes.

Assessment

Gathering client information to identify strengths, needs, and concerns.

Planning

Developing goals and intervention strategies to address client needs.

Termination

Ending services while ensuring follow-up care and evaluation of progress.

Independent Variable

The factor that is intentionally changed or controlled in an experiment to observe its effect. The variable manipulated by the researcher.

Dependent Variable

The outcome being measured in research.

Cross-Sequential Design

Combines cross-sectional and longitudinal methods to study multiple groups over time.

Tourette’s Disorder

• A neurological disorder characterized by the presence of both motor and vocal tics that persist for at least 1 year. • Motor Tics: Sudden, brief, repetitive movements (e.g., blinking, shoulder shrugging, facial grimacing). • Vocal Tics: Involuntary sounds or words (e.g., throat clearing, sniffing, grunting, or shouting). • Example: A child repeatedly blinking (motor tic) and making a humming sound (vocal tic) without control.

What are antianxiety medications primarily used for?

Treating anxiety disorders and acute anxiety symptoms.

Bipolar Disorder

A mood disorder with alternating manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Chronic mood fluctuations with periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting 2+ years (1 year in children). • Example: Frequent mood swings between mild highs and lows without severe episodes.

Bipolar I Disorder

At least one manic episode lasting 7+ days or requiring hospitalization, often followed by depression. • Manic Episode: Elevated mood, high energy, risky behaviors. • Example: Staying awake for days, impulsive spending, grandiosity.

Bipolar II Disorder

At least one hypomanic episode (4+ days) and one major depressive episode. No full manic episodes. • Example: Feeling very productive for days, followed by weeks of sadness.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Chronic mood fluctuations with periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting 2+ years (1 year in children). • Example: Frequent mood swings between mild highs and lows without severe episodes.

Manic Episode

A period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and increased energy lasting at least 1 week. • Symptoms: Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, Decreased need for sleep, Racing thoughts or flight of ideas, Increased talkativeness, Risky behaviors (e.g., overspending, reckless driving), • Impact: Causes significant impairment in functioning and may require hospitalization. • Example: A person starts multiple unrealistic projects, spends excessively, and sleeps very little for several days.

Hypomanic Episode

• A less severe form of a manic episode with elevated mood or irritability lasting at least 4 consecutive days. • Symptoms: Similar to mania but less intense:, Increased energy or productivity, Reduced need for sleep, Grandiosity or inflated self-confidence, Talkativeness and racing thoughts • Impact: Does not cause significant functional impairment or hospitalization. • Example: A person feels unusually energetic, starts new projects, and works efficiently without disruption.

Intervention

The process of implementing strategies to address a client’s identified problems, needs, or goals. Steps: Selecting appropriate methods (e.g., counseling, referrals, psychoeducation), Collaborating with clients to develop solutions,Monitoring and adjusting the intervention as needed • Example: Providing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help a client manage anxiety.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

A neurodevelopmental disorder marked by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that occurs in two or more settings (e.g., school, home). • Symptoms: o Inattention: Difficulty focusing, frequent mistakes, losing items. o Hyperactivity: Fidgeting, talking excessively, difficulty sitting still. • Example: Struggles to complete homework at home and frequently disrupts class at school.

Conduct Disorder

A behavioral disorder in children marked by repetitive violations of social norms and others' rights. • Symptoms: Aggression, destruction of property, theft, deceitfulness. • Example: A child frequently bullies peers and engages in vandalism.

Name a commonly prescribed antianxiety medication.

Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam or alprazolam.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

A disorder characterized by defiant, angry, and argumentative behaviors in children. • Symptoms: o Often argues with authority figures o Refuses to comply with rules o Deliberately annoys others. • Example: A child frequently refuses to follow teacher instructions and argues when corrected.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A developmental disorder involving challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. • Symptoms: o Difficulty with eye contact, gestures, and understanding social cues. o Repetitive movements or speech. o Sensory sensitivities (e.g., disliking loud noises). • Example: A child avoids playing with peers and repeats the same phrases.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

Excessive fear or anxiety about being apart from attachment figures, common in children. • Symptoms: o Refusing to go to school o Nightmares about separation o Physical complaints (e.g., stomachaches) when separated. • Example: A child cries excessively when dropped off at school.

Enuresis (Bedwetting)

Repeated involuntary urination during the day or night in children aged 5 years or older. • Example: A 7-year-old wets the bed at least twice a week for three months.

Encopresis

Repeated involuntary or intentional passage of feces in inappropriate places in children aged 4 years or older. • Example: A 6-year-old soils their underwear despite being toilet trained.

Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)

A condition in children caused by neglect or inconsistent caregiving, leading to difficulty forming healthy attachments. • Symptoms: o Emotionally withdrawn behavior o Failure to seek comfort when distressed o Limited positive emotions. • Example: A child avoids hugs and refuses comfort when upset.

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED)

A disorder in children characterized by inappropriate, overly familiar behavior with unfamiliar adults due to neglect or insufficient caregiving. • Symptoms: o Reduced or absent fear of strangers. o Willingness to approach and interact with unfamiliar adults. o Limited checking back with caregivers, even in unfamiliar settings. • Example: A child runs up to an unknown adult in a park, asking for a hug and acting as though they know them.

What conditions are stimulants commonly prescribed for?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

Name a commonly prescribed stimulant.

Methylphenidate (Ritalin) or amphetamine salts (Adderall).

Biopsychosocial Assessment

A comprehensive assessment that explores biological, psychological, and social factors affecting a client’s functioning and well-being. • Key Focus: Looks at health history, mental health symptoms, and social/environmental influences.

Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)

A 21-item self-report questionnaire used to assess the severity of depressive symptoms. • Scoring: Higher scores indicate more severe depression.

Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)

A standardized psychometric test to assess personality traits and psychopathology. • Use: Helps diagnose mental disorders.

Rorschach Inkblot Test

A projective test where individuals interpret inkblots to uncover unconscious thoughts. • Use: Evaluates personality structure and emotional functioning.

Wechsler Intelligence Scale (WAIS)

An IQ test that measures cognitive ability in adults. • Components: Verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.

Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)

A projective test where individuals create stories about ambiguous pictures. • Use: Evaluates emotions, motivations, and unresolved conflicts.

Mental Status Exam (MSE)

A structured assessment of a client’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. • Components: Appearance, speech, mood, thought process, cognition, insight, and judgment.

Mini-Mental Status Exam (MMSE)

A brief test to assess cognitive functioning, particularly for dementia. • Scoring: Out of 30 points; lower scores suggest cognitive impairment.

Safety Planning

Developing a plan to ensure safety during crises, especially for suicide risk or IPV. • Components: Warning signs, coping strategies, support contacts, and safe places.

Delirium

A sudden, reversible cognitive disturbance caused by medical conditions or substances. • Features: Disorientation, hallucinations, and fluctuating levels of consciousness.

Dementia

A progressive decline in cognitive function, memory, and executive functioning. • Example: Alzheimer’s disease.

Hallucinations

False sensory perceptions without external stimuli. • Types: Auditory, visual, tactile, olfactory.

Delusions

Fixed, false beliefs that are not grounded in reality. • Types: Persecutory, grandiose, and somatic.

Eating Disorders

• Anorexia Nervosa: Restrictive eating, intense fear of weight gain. • Bulimia Nervosa: Binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors. • Binge Eating Disorder: Recurrent binge eating without purging. • Pica: Eating non-nutritive substances. • Rumination Disorder: Repeated regurgitation of food.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Intense fear of social situations due to fear of embarrassment or scrutiny.

What is a randomized control design?

A type of experimental design considered the gold standard for determining causality, involving random assignment and control groups.

Factitious Disorder by Proxy

Inducing illness in another person to gain attention or sympathy.

Malingering

Intentionally faking or exaggerating symptoms for external benefits (e.g., money, avoiding work)

Illness Anxiety Disorder

Preoccupation with having a serious illness despite minimal symptoms.

Paraphilic Disorders

Intense and atypical sexual urges causing distress or harm.

Personality Disorders Types:

:

o Cluster A: Paranoid, Schizoid, Schizotypal. o Cluster B: Borderline, Antisocial, Narcissistic, Histrionic. o Cluster C: Avoidant, Dependent, Obsessive-Compulsive.

Childhood Disorders

• Examples: ADHD, Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Developmental disorder with social deficits, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities.

Gambling Disorder

Persistent, problematic gambling behavior despite negative consequences.

Paranoid Personality Disorder

Pervasive distrust and suspicion of others. • Features: Believes others are deceitful, holds grudges, perceives innocent remarks as threats.

What are psychotropic medications?

Medications that affect brain chemistry and are used to treat mental health disorders.

Schizotypal Personality Disorder

Acute discomfort in close relationships, eccentric behaviors, and odd beliefs. • Features: Magical thinking, unusual speech patterns, social anxiety, odd appearance.

Borderline Personality Disorder

Instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions with impulsive behaviors. • Features: Fear of abandonment, mood swings, impulsivity, self-harm, chronic feelings of emptiness.

Histrionic Personality Disorder

Excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behaviors. • Features: Dramatic, seeks approval, easily influenced, considers relationships more intimate than they are.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy. • Features: Exaggerated sense of importance, entitlement, preoccupation with fantasies of power or success.

Antisocial Personality Disorder

Disregard for and violation of the rights of others. • Features: Deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, lack of remorse, repeated unlawful behaviors.

Avoidant Personality Disorder

Social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to criticism. • Features: Avoids social situations, fears rejection, sees self as socially inept.

Dependent Personality Disorder

Excessive need to be cared for, leading to submissive and clingy behavior. • Features: Difficulty making decisions, relies on others, fears being alone.

Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)

Preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control. • Features: Inflexible, over-focused on rules and details, reluctant to delegate tasks, workaholic tendencies.

Genogram

A visual diagram representing family relationships, patterns, and medical or behavioral histories across generations. • Use: Helps identify family dynamics, hereditary issues, and social systems.

Active Listening

Fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what a client is saying. • Features: Eye contact, open body language, paraphrasing, and reflecting feelings.

Name four categories of psychotropic medications.

Antipsychotics, antidepressants, antianxiety medications, and stimulants.

Organic Disorders

Disorders caused by physical or medical conditions affecting brain function. • Examples: Dementia, delirium, traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Collateral Information

Data gathered from individuals or sources other than the client (e.g., family, medical records). • Use: Provides a fuller picture of the client’s history and functioning.

Insight

A client’s awareness and understanding of their own thoughts, behaviors, and mental health issues. • Levels: Good, partial, or poor insight.

Affect

The observable expression of emotions (e.g., flat, blunted, labile, inappropriate). • Example: Smiling while expressing sadness is inappropriate affect.

Enuresis

Repeated involuntary urination, typically at night, after age 5. • Subtypes: Primary (never achieved continence) or secondary (relapse).

Encopresis

Repeated involuntary defecation in inappropriate places in children older than age 4. • Features: Often linked to constipation or behavioral concerns.

Social Work Helping Process

A structured approach in social work involving: Engagement → Assessment → Planning → Intervention → Evaluation → Termination.

Reliability

Consistency of a measure or assessment tool over time. • Example: A test yields similar results across repeated administrations.

Validity

The extent to which an assessment tool measures what it is intended to measure.

SOAP Assessment

A structured note-taking format: o S: Subjective (client report) o O: Objective (observations, facts) o A: Assessment (clinician’s interpretation) o P: Plan (next steps).

What are antipsychotics used to treat?

Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression.

Formative Evaluation

Ongoing evaluation during an intervention to improve effectiveness. • Example: Feedback gathered mid-program to adjust strategies.

Summative Evaluation

Evaluation conducted at the end of an intervention to measure overall outcomes. • Example: Final program effectiveness report.

Single Subject Design

Research design focusing on one subject over time to evaluate intervention effectiveness • Example: A-B-A design (baseline, intervention, return to baseline)

Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI)

A psychological test used to assess personality disorders and clinical syndromes. • Use: Helps with diagnosis and treatment planning.

Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale

A standardized test measuring cognitive abilities and intelligence. • Components: Measures reasoning, knowledge, and problem-solving.

Predictive Validity

The degree to which a test can predict future outcomes. • Example: SAT scores predicting college success.

External Validity

The extent to which research findings can be generalized to real-world settings.

Concurrent Validity

The extent to which a test correlates with an existing, established measure. • Example: Comparing a new depression scale with the BDI.

Qualitative Data

Non-numerical data describing characteristics, experiences, or behaviors. • Examples: Interviews, narratives, observations.

Quantitative Data

Numerical data used to measure variables and analyze statistical relationships. • Examples: Surveys, test scores, structured observations.

What is tardive dyskinesia?

A side effect of long-term use of antipsychotics, characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, often of the face and tongue.

Cross-Sectional Design

A research method that studies different groups of people at one point in time. • Use: Identifies differences across age, demographics, or other variables.

Psychosocial Stress

Stress caused by social and psychological factors (e.g., relationships, finances, work). • Example: Stress from job loss or marital conflict.

Risk Assessment

Process of evaluating potential risks (e.g., harm to self/others, neglect) in a client’s environment or behavior. • Use: Guides safety planning and intervention.

Engagement

The initial phase of the helping process where rapport, trust, and a working relationship are established. • Key Skills: Active listening, empathy, and client-centered communication.

Macro Social Work

Focus on large systems such as communities, organizations, and policies. • Example: Advocacy, community organizing, policy development.

Micro Social Work

Focus on individuals or small groups for direct practice and intervention. • Example: Counseling, case management.

Mezzo Social Work

Focus on mid-level systems such as families, groups, and organizations. • Example: Support groups, family therapy, organizational consulting.

Trauma-Informed Care

An approach that recognizes, understands, and responds to the impact of trauma on clients. • Principles: Safety, trustworthiness, empowerment, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity.

Crisis Plans

A plan developed to help clients respond to crisis situations safely and effectively. • Components: Warning signs, coping strategies, emergency contacts, and safety steps.

Discharge (Follow-Up Care)

The final phase of care, ensuring continuity of support after services end. • Key Steps: Referrals, follow-up appointments, and client education.

What are antimanic agents used for?

To treat and prevent manic episodes in bipolar disorder.

Longitudinal Design

Research that studies the same group of people over a long period of time. • Use: Identifies developmental trends or long-term outcomes.

Experimental/Randomized Control

A research design where participants are randomly assigned to control and experimental groups to test interventions. • Strength: High internal validity

Quasi-Experimental Design

A research method similar to experimental design but lacking random assignment. • Use: Often used in real-world settings when randomization isn’t feasible.

Disorientation

A state of mental confusion where a person is unaware of time, place, or identity. • Types: o Time disorientation: Not knowing the current date or time. o Place disorientation: Uncertainty about current location. o Person disorientation: Failure to recognize oneself or others. • Example: A person with dementia may not recognize their own home or forget their age.

Grandiose

An inflated sense of self-importance, power, or abilities. • Associated Disorders: Bipolar I (during manic episodes), Narcissistic Personality Disorder. • Example: Believing one has special powers to influence world events.

Somatic

Relating to physical symptoms that are caused or exacerbated by psychological distress. • Example: Stress causing headaches, stomach pain, or fatigue without a medical cause.

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)

A trauma-related disorder lasting from 3 days to 1 month after exposure to a traumatic event. • Symptoms: Intrusive thoughts, dissociation, avoidance, hyperarousal. • Example: Experiencing flashbacks after a car accident.

Panic Attacks

Sudden and intense periods of fear or discomfort peaking within minutes. • Symptoms: Palpitations, shortness of breath, trembling, dizziness, depersonalization. • Example: Feeling unable to breathe while in a crowded elevator.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life for at least 6 months. • Symptoms: Restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension. • Example: Constant worrying about finances, work, and relationships.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A disorder resulting from exposure to trauma, with symptoms lasting more than 1 month. • Symptoms: o Re-experiencing trauma (flashbacks, nightmares). o Avoidance of reminders. o Negative changes in thoughts/moods. o Hypervigilance. • Example: A veteran avoiding fireworks due to combat memories.

What are antidepressants used to treat?

Depression, anxiety disorders, and other mood-related conditions.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

A disorder characterized by intrusive obsessions and repetitive compulsions aimed at reducing anxiety. • Examples: o Obsession: Fear of germs. o Compulsion: Excessive handwashing.

Agoraphobia

Intense fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable. • Examples: o Avoiding open spaces, public transportation, or crowded places. o Refusing to leave home alone.

Schizoid Personality Disorder

Detachment from social relationships and restricted emotional expression. • Features: Prefers solitude, little interest in close relationships, emotionally cold.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Persistent low mood, loss of interest, and associated symptoms for at least 2 weeks. • Symptoms: Fatigue, sleep issues, hopelessness, suicidal ideation.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Chronic low-grade depression lasting at least 2 years (adults) or 1 year (children). • Example: Feeling consistently sad, tired, and unmotivated over years.

Dissociative Disorders

Conditions involving disruptions in memory, identity, perception, or consciousness. • Types: o Dissociative Amnesia: Memory loss of personal information. o Depersonalization: Feeling detached from oneself. o Dissociative Identity Disorder: Presence of two or more distinct identities.

Conversion Disorder

Neurological symptoms (e.g., paralysis, seizures) without medical cause, often triggered by stress. • Example: Sudden inability to walk after witnessing a traumatic event.

Factitious Disorder

Intentionally faking or producing physical/mental symptoms to assume the sick role.

Somatic Symptom Disorder

Excessive focus on physical symptoms causing significant distress and impairment.

Prolonged Grief Disorder

Persistent and impairing grief lasting longer than culturally expected. • Timeline: o Adults: Grief lasting >12 months. o Children: Grief lasting >6 months.

Sexual Dysfunctions

Disorders affecting sexual desire, arousal, or performance. • Examples: Erectile dysfunction, female orgasmic disorder.

What is the focus of a strengths-based assessment?

Identifying and utilizing a client's strengths and resources.

What are three key factors to assess in suicide risk?

Plan, Means, and Intent.

What does “rule out” mean in a DSM-5 diagnosis?

Indicates that further investigation is needed to confirm or eliminate a diagnosis.

What is an ecomap used for in social work?

To visualize a client’s social and environmental relationships.

What does SMART stand for in goal setting?

Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.

Bachelor Level Flashcard: Assessment and Intervention Planning

Bachelor Level Flashcard: Assessment and Intervention Planning

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