Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

A social worker should first help a client raised by alcoholic parents to understand which concept?

1. Self-assertion

2. Boundary setting

3. Codependency

4. Anger management

The correct answer is: Codependency

When assisting a client who was raised by alcoholic parents, it's essential for the social worker to help them understand codependency as a foundational concept. Codependency often manifests in individuals who have grown up in environments where substance abuse is prevalent. They may develop patterns of behavior that prioritize the needs and feelings of others over their own and often struggle with their sense of self. Understanding codependency allows the client to recognize how their upbringing may have shaped their relationships and coping mechanisms. It enables them to identify unhealthy patterns, such as excessively accommodating others' needs or experiencing difficulties in establishing their identity apart from their familial roles. This awareness is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for further therapeutic work. Once the client begins to grasp the dynamics of codependency, they can then explore related concepts like boundary setting, self-assertion, and anger management, which are also important but become more pertinent after the foundation of codependency is established. Emphasizing codependency first helps the client not only reflect on their past experiences but also start the process of healing and self-discovery in a structured manner.