Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

During a therapy session, what would be an appropriate response by a social worker to a client exhibiting defensiveness?

1. Challenge the client to explain their behavior

2. Ignore the defensiveness to keep the session flowing

3. Explore the underlying feelings contributing to the defensiveness

4. Redirect the focus back to treatment goals

The correct answer is: Explore the underlying feelings contributing to the defensiveness

Exploring the underlying feelings contributing to defensiveness is a vital approach in therapy, particularly within the context of building trust and understanding the client's emotional state. Defensiveness often serves as a protective mechanism that clients use when they feel threatened or vulnerable. By actively exploring these underlying feelings, the social worker creates a safe space for the client to articulate concerns that may not be immediately apparent. This process can help in identifying specific fears, past traumas, or anxieties that lead to the defensive behavior, fostering a deeper therapeutic alliance. It demonstrates empathy and validation, allowing the client to feel heard and understood, which can reduce their defensiveness over time and facilitate a more productive dialogue. Engaging in this exploration encourages the client to reflect on their emotions and behaviors, promoting self-awareness and insight. It allows for a collaborative approach in which the social worker and client can work together to address these feelings constructively, ultimately leading to positive changes in therapy.