Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

When two young boys report abuse following a visit to their father, what is the social worker's immediate responsibility?

1. Arrange for the father to participate in counseling

2. Immediately report the allegations of abuse to the appropriate authorities

3. Hold a family meeting to discuss the allegations

4. Encourage the children to express their feelings

The correct answer is: Immediately report the allegations of abuse to the appropriate authorities

The immediate responsibility of the social worker is to report the allegations of abuse to the appropriate authorities. In cases of suspected child abuse, social workers are mandated reporters, meaning they have a legal and ethical obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of the children involved. By reporting the allegations, the social worker triggers an investigation by Child Protective Services or law enforcement, which is essential to protect the children from further harm. Addressing the matter with the seriousness it deserves is critical; the safety of the children must be prioritized over any other intervention. While counseling, family meetings, and encouraging expression of feelings can be important in addressing the psychological and relational aspects of the situation, these steps come after ensuring that the children are safe from potential ongoing abuse. Reporting to the proper authorities helps ensure that trained professionals can assess the environment and take necessary actions to safeguard the well-being of the boys.