Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

A social worker is evaluating a 46-year-old married woman distressed by her husband's erectile dysfunction. What is the most suitable action the social worker should take?

1. Encourage the woman to let her husband express his feelings

2. Offer individual therapy to the woman

3. Suggest couples therapy to address the issue together

4. Advise the woman to seek medical advice

The correct answer is: Suggest couples therapy to address the issue together

The most suitable action in this scenario is to suggest couples therapy to address the issue together. Couples therapy provides a safe space for both partners to communicate openly about sensitive topics, such as erectile dysfunction, which can significantly affect the emotional and relational dynamics within a marriage. This approach enables both individuals to express their feelings, explore the underlying issues contributing to the dysfunction, and collaboratively work towards solutions. Engaging in couples therapy can also help the couple strengthen their emotional connection, improve communication skills, and foster a sense of support for one another, which is essential when navigating challenges associated with sexual health. This choice is particularly beneficial as it acknowledges that the issue impacts both partners and promotes a united front in addressing it. While encouraging the woman to let her husband express his feelings may provide some benefit, it does not facilitate an open dialogue involving both partners within a structured therapeutic setting. Offering individual therapy to the woman could provide support, but it wouldn't address the couple’s shared issues directly. Advising the woman to seek medical advice could be relevant but might not address the emotional and relational aspects of the situation comprehensively, which are crucial for the couple's long-term well-being.