Jan
17
Methods of service delivery
Journeying through the ASWB exam content outline now brings us here: Methods of service delivery. Let's read up and then try a practice question on the topic.
Jan
15
Leadership and management techniques
We're winding down our ASWB exam content outline tour over the next few weeks -- not because we're growing weary, we're just running out of outline. Here's one of the stragglers: Leadership and management techniques.
Jan
13
Methods of Networking
This ASWB content outline item comes from the Interdisciplinary Collaboration section: Methods of networking. Why is this on the exam outline? Seems like the ASWB wants to ensure that once you're licensed, you can find ways to put the license to use.
Jan
10
Limit setting techniques
"Clear is kind" is a nice way of summing up the value of direct communication and defined boundaries in relationships. Just being nice isn't doing social work.
Jan
08
Techniques used for follow-up
Our expedition through the ASWB exam content outline now pauses here: Techniques used for follow-up. Let's dig into the topic then try out a practice question.
Follow-
Jan
06
Cognitive and behavioral interventions
Here's some important review straight from the ASWB exam outline: Cognitive and behavioral interventions. Let's read up then try a practice question.
Cognitive and behavioral interventions are evidence-
Jan
03
Methods to assess the availability of community resources
Next up on our ASWB exam content outline tour: Methods to assess the availability of community resources. Macro questions drawn from topics like these are steadily making increased appearances on the licensing exam.
Jan
02
Client/client system contracting and goal-setting techniques
Our tireless journey through the ASWB exam content outline continues here: Client/client system contracting and goal-setting techniques.
Goal-
Dec
27
The impact of aging parents on adult children
Here's an ASWB exam content outline you may be hearing about from clients and experiencing in your own life: The impact of aging parents on adult children. Let's read up then try out a sample question.
Dec
23
Models of family life education in social work practice
Our ASWB exam content tour now stops here: Models of family life education in social work practice. First, let's review. Then, let's try out a practice question.
Dec
20
Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
Next up in our walk through the ASWB exam content outline: Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan. The exam has backed off asking lots of questions about the generalized preferences of different groups.
Dec
18
Methods to obtain and provide feedback
Here's another easy to pass over (but unwise to pass over) ASWB exam content outline topic: Methods to obtain and provide feedback. Let's read up and then try out a practice question on the topic.
Dec
16
The effect of the client's developmental level on the social worker-client relationship
Our ASWB exam content outline tour now stops here: The effect of the client's developmental level on the social worker-client relationship. Let's explore then try out a practice question on the topic.
Dec
13
The impact of domestic, intimate partner, and other violence on the helping relationship.
Here's an interesting item from the Therapeutic Relationship section of the ASWB exam content outline: The impact of domestic, intimate partner, and other violence on the helping relationship. The topic isn't the violence itself--
Dec
11
Techniques to inform and influence organizational and social policy
Next up on our ASWB content outline journey: Techniques to inform and influence organizational and social policy. Exam writers have been leaning on macro questions with greater frequency.
Dec
09
Professional boundaries in the social worker-client relationship
Definitely expect exam questions--maybe multiple exam questions--on this ASWB exam content outline item: Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, conflicts of interest, etc.).
Dec
06
Acceptance and empathy
The ASWB exam content outline train now stops here: The concept of acceptance and empathy in the social worker-client/client system relationship--easily shortened to acceptance and empathy. Fundamental and essential stuff!
Dec
02
Models of supervision and consultation
We now arrive at this ASWB exam content outline item: Models of supervision and consultation (e.g., individual, peer, group). As usual, let's review and then try out a practice question on the topic.
Nov
29
Psychotherapies
Here's a one-word ASWB exam content outline item that contains multitudes: Psychotherapies. "Which psychotherapies?" you might ask. "All of them?" No, not all of them.
Nov
27
Advocacy for policies, services, and resources to meet clients' needs
This ASWB exam content outline item is long but mighty: Theories and methods of advocacy for policies, services, and resources to meet clients'/client systems' needs. Let's take a look at the topic and then try out a practice question.
Nov
25
Professional values and principles
We're entering the last weeks of our ASWB exam content outline tour. Today we arrive here: Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, and dignity and worth of the person). These are basics--and exam essentials.
Nov
22
Evaluating policies and procedures for social worker safety
Here's a non-scintillating ASWB exam content outline item: Methods to create, implement, and evaluate policies and procedures for social worker safety. The topic may have soporific qualities, but it also may be on the exam.
Nov
20
The use of client/client system records
Another day, another ASWB exam content outline item. This time, the use of client/client system records. Let's dig in and then try out a practice question on the topic. This repeats material we've covered already--but we're being thorough.
Nov
18
Legal and/or ethical issues related to the practice of social work
This ASWB exam content outline item is a lot: Legal and/or ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society. All those words, and so unspecific.
Nov
15
The phases of intervention and treatment
Trekking through the ASWB exam content outline, we arrive here: The phases of intervention and treatment. Let's poke around in the material some, then try out a practice question on the topic.
Nov
13
Risk assessment methods
Risk assessment methods is our next ASWB exam content outline item. Let's read up and then try a practice question on the topic.
Nov
11
Parenting skills and capacities
Today's ASWB exam content outline item: Parenting skills and capacities. Parenting skills echo social work skills in a lot of ways (and vice versa). Let's take a look, then run a practice question based upon the material.
Nov
08
Indicators and dynamics of abuse and neglect throughout the lifespan
Next up in our ASWB exam content outline tour: Indicators and dynamics of abuse and neglect throughout the lifespan. Let's look at the content and then at a practice exam question.
Nov
06
Social and economic justice
Next stop in our ASWB exam content outline journey: Social and economic justice. Let's take a look and then run a practice question.
Nov
04
Strengths-based strategies and interventions
Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions is next in our review of every item in the ASWB exam content outline. Let's dive in and then try out a practice question on the topic.
Strengths-
Nov
03
The dynamics of diversity in the social worker-client/client system relationship
Now we arrive at this ASWB exam content outline item: The dynamics of diversity in the social worker-client/client system relationship. Let's explore and then run a quick practice question on the topic.
Oct
30
The impact of immigration, refugee, or undocumented status on service delivery
Next up on our ASWB exam content tour, a timely topic ripped from the headlines: The impact of immigration, refugee, or undocumented status on service delivery.
Oct
28
Methods to assess the client’s/client system’s communication skills
Our ASWB exam content outline tour continues with this: Methods to assess the client’s/client system’s communication skills. Let's take a look at the material and then try a practice question.
Oct
25
Accreditation and/or licensing requirements
October 25, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we bounce around the ASWB exam content outline: Accreditation and/or licensing requirements. Here's a topic--assuming the ASWB means social work accreditation and licensing--
Oct
23
Community organizing and social planning methods
Here's an ASWB exam content outline topic that seems to have been source of more and more questions on the exam itself: Community organizing and social planning methods. Let's dig in and then try a practice question on the topic.
Oct
21
The factors and processes used in problem formulation
Our hop through the ASWB exam content outline now comes here: The factors and processes used in problem formulation. Let's take a look.
In social work, problem formulation is a critical first step in understanding and addressing client issues.
Oct
16
The indicators of the client’s/client system’s strengths and challenges
The ASWB exam content outline keeps on going and so do we. Next up: The indicators of the client’s/client system’s strengths and challenges. Let's take a look and then run a practice question on the material.
Oct
14
Consultation approaches
Strolling through the ASWB exam content outline, we now pause at this: Consultation approaches (e.g. referrals to specialists). Let's look at the material and then try out a practice question on the topic.
Oct
09
Methods to teach coping and other self-care skills
Our journey through the ASWB exam content outline now brings us to this: Methods to teach coping and other self-care skills to clients/client systems. As ever, let's walk through the material and then try a free practice question on the topic.
Oct
07
Communication theories and styles
From the HBSE section of the ASWB exam outline, let's look at Communication theories and styles.
The material explores how social workers interact with clients, collaborate with colleagues, and advocate for policy changes.
Oct
04
The components of a safe and positive work environment
Here's another ASWB exam content outline you might easily skip over while preparing for the licensing exam: The components of a safe and positive work environment. Let's not skip. Let's dig in and finish off with a practice question.
Oct
02
Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality
Here's a crucial ASWB exam content outline for your review: Legal and/or ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including electronic information security. Let's review and then try out a practice question on the topic.
Sep
30
Task-centered approaches
ASWB exam content outline tour next stop: Task-centered approaches. Get ready to answer ASWB exam questions on the topic by reading on!
Task-centered approaches are a highly practical and time-
Sep
27
Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
September 27, 2024
|
knowledge
Our stroll through the ASWB exam content outline continues, landing on this: Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice. Let's do the usual--explore the topic, then how the topic may look on the ASWB exam.
Sep
25
Methods to incorporate psych and educational tests into assessment
September 25, 2024
|
knowledge
Continuing through the ASWB exam content outline, we arrive here: Methods to incorporate the results of psychological and educational tests into assessment. Not the most glamorous topic, but worth a look!
Sep
23
Sexual orientation concepts
September 23, 2024
|
knowledge
Some more basics from the ASWB exam content outline for your review: Sexual orientation concepts. Let's read up and then look at how the material may appear on the social work licensing exam.
Sep
20
The principles and techniques of interviewing
September 20, 2024
|
knowledge
Our ride through the ASWB exam content outline's next top: The principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, focusing, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters, redirecting).
Sep
18
The dynamics of power and transparency in social work
Here's some ASWB exam content material that's good to think upon whether or not you're preparing for the social work licensing exam: The dynamics of power and transparency in the social worker-client/client system relationship.
Sep
16
Methods to establish service networks or community resources
September 16, 2024
|
knowledge
Our ASWB exam content outline excursion now brings us here: Methods to establish service networks or community resources. This is another macro topic that's easy to overlook as you're preparing to pass the social work licensing exam. Less so now.
Sep
13
Theories of social change and community development
Next stop on our ASWB exam content outline tour: Theories of social change and community development. Let's look at the theories and then at how they might appear on the social work exam.
Sep
11
Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification
September 11, 2024
|
knowledge
Tiptoeing through the ASWB exam content outline, we arrive here: Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification (e.g., gathering collateral information).
Sep
09
The effect of disability on biopsychosocial functioning
September 9, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we bounce around through the ASWB exam content outline: The effect of disability on biopsychosocial functioning throughout the lifespan.
Sep
06
Body image and its impact
September 6, 2024
|
knowledge
The ASWB exam content outline (and, potentially, the exam itself) covers a wide range of questions and issues social worker encounter on the job. Next up on our walk-through: Body image and its impact (e.g., identity, self-
Sep
04
Role theory
Here's an ASWB exam content outline item worth reviewing (mainly because you may know nothing about the not often spotlighted concept): Role theory. Let's learn about it and then look at how the topic might appear on the social work exam.
Sep
02
Social Work and Labor
For Labor Day, here's a post dedicated to labor and social work, finishing with a a free social work exam practice question on the topic.
Aug
30
The use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association
Here's a short line from the ASWB exam outline that hides an ask for a lot of possible know-how: The use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association. No, they don't just mean how to open a book and turn pages.
Aug
28
Biopsychosocial factors related to mental health
August 28, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up: Biopsychosocial factors related to mental health. The ASWB exam content outline delves into the biopsychosocial several times--more than you can count on your hand. So...worth knowing!
Aug
26
The indicators of motivation, resistance, and readiness to change
August 26, 2024
|
knowledge
Our ASWB exam content outline safari continues with this: The indicators of motivation, resistance, and readiness to change. If you're read in, this evokes things you know about Motivational Interviewing--a social work (and ASWB exam) staple.
Aug
21
Personality theories
Continuing our ASWB exam content outline sojourn, we come to this: Personality theories. What about personality theories? Let's theorize about what the ASWB is looking for and how the material may appear on the social work exam.
Aug
19
The interplay of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors
August 19, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's a good and vague ASWB exam outline item for your quick review: The interplay of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. What's the ASWB getting at here?
Aug
16
The components of intervention, treatment, and service plans
August 16, 2024
|
knowledge
Onward through the ASWB exam content outline! Next up: The components of intervention, treatment, and service plans. Let's explore and then look at how the material may look on the exam itself.
Aug
14
Systemic discrimination
August 14, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's another good ASWB exam content item worth some time to review: Systemic (institutionalized) discrimination (e.g., racism, sexism, ageism).
Aug
12
The indicators of normal and abnormal development throughout the lifespan
August 12, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we continue through the ASWB exam content outline: The indicators of normal and abnormal physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan.
Aug
09
Criminal justice systems
August 9, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we continue meandering through the ASWB exam content outline: Criminal justice systems.
Aug
07
The effects of addiction and substance abuse
As we continue steaming through the ASWB exam content outline, we arrive here: The effects of addiction and substance abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Aug
05
Time management approaches
August 5, 2024
|
knowledge
Continuing our cruise through the ASWB exam content outline, we come to this: Time management approaches. Does that mean for social workers? For clients? On the exam? Let's take a look at all three!
Jul
31
Methods used to assess trauma
July 31, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's an ASWB exam content outline item that's useful both for exam prep and for social work practice: Methods used to assess trauma. Let's take a look at how to put this to use with your clients and on the licensing exam.
Jul
29
Factors influencing self-image
July 29, 2024
|
knowledge
We're running short on high-interest ASWB content outline items. That doesn't mean we're running out of relevant items. They're all worth studying since they all may be the source of questions on the exam. Next up: Factors influencing self-image (e.
Jul
26
Biopsychosocial responses to illness and disability
As we continue our hike through the ASWB exam content outline, we arrive at this: Biopsychosocial responses to illness and disability.
Jul
24
Data collection and analysis methods
July 24, 2024
|
knowledge
We continue cruising through the ASWB exam content outline with another not-so-spicy topic, but one worth a look: Data collection and analysis methods. Let's review and see how the material may appear on the social work exam.
Jul
22
The indicators of behavioral dysfunction
July 22, 2024
|
knowledge
Continuing our voyage through the ASWB content exam outline, we arrive here: The indicators of behavioral dysfunction. Let's review the indicators, the associated diagnoses, and how all of that may appear on the social work licensing exam.
Jul
19
Spotlight: The components of case management
July 19, 2024
|
knowledge
If you're a case manager, maybe you can skip this write up. Everyone else, gather around as we dive into another ASWB content outline topic: The components of case management.
Jul
17
Professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge
July 17, 2024
|
knowledge
We're starting to run into some of the less juicy ASWB exam content outline items as we continue our exploration. Next up: Professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-
Jul
15
The client's/client system's right to refuse services
Next up on our ASWB exam journey: The client's/client system's right to refuse services (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, etc.).
Jul
12
Methods to identify learning needs and develop learning objectives for supervisees
July 12, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's an ASWB exam content outline item somewhat more likely to show up as a question on the clinical exam than on the other levels: Methods to identify learning needs and develop learning objectives for supervisees.
Jul
10
The relationship between formal and informal power structures in the decision-making process
July 10, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's a wordy ASWB exam content outline topic for quick review: The relationship between formal and informal power structures in the decision-making process. You may wonder, "What's the ASWB getting at here?" This is some of the more organization-
Jul
08
The effects of physical, mental, and cognitive impairments throughout the lifespan
July 8, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we trek through the ASWB exam content outline: The effects of physical, mental, and cognitive disabilities throughout the lifespan. (The ASWB uses the word disabilities; we'll substitute the somewhat less charged impairments here.
Jul
05
Social worker self-care principles and techniques
July 5, 2024
|
knowledge
|
less stress
Our ASWB exam content outline expedition continues with this: Social worker self-care principles and techniques. We've covered this material before on (see the "less stress" tag) not always as exam content, but as good exam prep. So this is a two-
Jul
01
Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
Next up in our adventure tour of the ASWB exam outline: Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches. Let's take a look at the topic and then at how this material may appear on the social work licensing exam. Ready...? Let's go.
Jun
28
The indicators of psychosocial stress
June 28, 2024
|
knowledge
Next stop on our ASWB exam content outline voyage: The indicators of psychosocial stress. You know 'em when you see 'em, if you've been a social worker (or a person) long enough.
Jun
26
The principles of culturally competent social work practice
June 26, 2024
|
knowledge
Our ASWB exam outline expedition continues with this: The principles of culturally competent social work practice. Let's look at those principles and then at how they may appear on the social work licensing exam.
Jun
24
Methods to assess the client strengths, resources, and challenges
June 24, 2024
|
knowledge
Next on our journey through the ASWB exam outline: Methods to assess the client's/client system's strengths, resources, and challenges (e.g., individual, family, group, organization, community).
Jun
21
The basic terminology of other professions
June 21, 2024
|
knowledge
Our ASWB exam outline tour continues with this: The basic terminology of professions other than social work (e.g., legal, educational).
Jun
19
The impact of out-of-home displacement
June 19, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up in our journey through the ASWB exam outline: The impact of out-of-home displacement (e.g., natural disaster, homelessness, immigration) on clients/client systems.
Jun
17
Methods to assess coping abilities
June 17, 2024
|
knowledge
Let's continue diving into the ASWB exam content outline. Next up: Methods to assess the client’s/client system’s coping abilities. Most of this should be familiar based upon experience--you may have tried it all at least a little.
Jun
12
Methods to assess motivation, resistance, and readiness to change
June 12, 2024
|
knowledge
Next stop on our ASWB exam content outline tour: Methods to assess motivation, resistance, and readiness to change. Your first thought about this is likely something about Motivational Interviewing--and you're right on target!
Jun
10
Theories of group development and functioning
June 10, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up on our ASWB exam content outline deep dive: Theories of group development and functioning. This isn't vital, sure-to-be-on-the-test material. Don't take time and energy cramming it into your brain.
Jun
07
Methods to evaluate agency programs
June 7, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up in our ASWB exam content outline tour: Methods to evaluate agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment).
Jun
05
Ethical issues in supervision and management
Let's look at another ethics item from the ASWB exam content outline: Ethical issues in supervision and management.
Jun
03
Legal and/or ethical issues related to death and dying
Continuing in the ethics section of the ASWB exam outline, we come to this: Legal and/or ethical issues related to death and dying. Dealing with death and dying is one of the more challenging aspects of social work.
Jun
03
The influence of the social worker's own values and beliefs
This next item from the ASWB content outline is a long one: The influence of the social worker's own values and beliefs on the social workerclient/client system relationship. This is a crucial topic for the exam.
Jun
01
Research ethics
Our several-post-long ethics run likely ends--at least for the time being--with this ASWB content outline topic: Research ethics (e.g., institutional review boards, use of human subjects, informed consent).
May
30
Self-disclosure principles and applications
Self-disclosure principles and applications is next up on our tour of the ASWB exam content outline. These ethics questions are some of the easiest to prepare for and most likely to appear on the exam. Let's take a look.
Principles of Self-
May
28
Ethical issues related to dual relationships
Next up, another from the ethics section of the ASWB exam content outline: Ethical issues related to dual relationships. Exam writers love these vignette-friendly ethics topics. Don't be surprised if you see this topic on the test.
May
26
Legal and/or ethical issues regarding termination
Next stop on our ASWB exam content outline tour: Legal and/or ethical issues regarding termination. Let's look at the topic and try out a practice question afterwards.
May
24
Legal and/or ethical issues regarding documentation
Here's a topic from the ASWB exam content outline that is very likely to make an appearance on the exam: Legal and/or ethical issues regarding documentation. Let's dig in and then look at how social work exam questions about this topic may look.
May
22
Assertiveness training
May 22, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up in our ASWB exam content outline tour: Assertiveness training. That doesn't jump out as crucial, social work-specific knowledge, but there it is, so let's review and see how the material may look on the social work licensing exam.
May
20
Psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approaches
From the intervention section of the ASWB exam outline, let's look at psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approaches and how they may appear on the social work exam.
May
17
Common psychotropic and non-psychotropic prescriptions
May 17, 2024
|
knowledge
Whether or not this next ASWB exam topic shows up on the exam or not, it will show up--and fast--in your day-to-day social work life: Common psychotropic and non-psychotropic prescriptions and over-the-counter medications and their side effects.
May
15
Addiction theories and concepts
Next up as we tour the ASWB exam content outline: Addiction theories and concepts. This is another one of those broad topic areas that could encompass more information than you could possibly have at your fingertips on exam day.
May
13
The impact of physical and mental illness on family dynamics
May 13, 2024
|
knowledge
Next ASWB exam content item for your consideration: The impact of physical and mental illness on family dynamics. This is in the HBSE section. It's a little vague, but let's take a look at the topic and how it may appear on the social work exam.
May
10
Techniques for mobilizing community participation
May 10, 2024
|
knowledge
It's easy to get lost in the weeds with all the clinical information that may show up on the social work licensing exam. But don't sleep on the mezzo and macro topics.
May
08
Partializing techniques
Here's another ASWB exam content outline item to brush up on: Partializing techniques. Partializing is the process of breaking down complex problems or situations into smaller, more manageable components.
May
06
Mindfulness and complementary therapeutic approaches
May 6, 2024
|
knowledge
|
less stress
Next up in our journey through the ASWB exam content outline: Mindfulness and complementary therapeutic approaches. Let's take a look at the topic and how it may appear on the social work exam.
May
03
Case recording for practice evaluation or supervision
May 3, 2024
|
knowledge
Case recording for practice evaluation or supervision is next up in our walk through the ASWB exam content outline. Let's look at the topic and how it might appear on the social work licensing exam.
Case Recording
Case recording (recorded-
May
01
Legal and/or ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting
May 1, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's another important ASWB exam content (and social work practice) topic: Legal and/or ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, etc.).
Apr
29
Theories of sexual development throughout the lifespan
From the Human Growth and Development section of the ASWB exam outline, here's a good-to-be-familiar-with item: Theories of sexual development throughout the lifespan.
Apr
26
Permanency planning
April 26, 2024
|
knowledge
If you haven't worked with out-of-home children, you may not be familiar with this topic, the next in our tour of the ASWB exam content outline: Permanency planning.
Apr
24
The effects of discrimination and stereotypes
April 24, 2024
|
knowledge
From the Diversity and Discrimination section of the ASWB exam content outline, let's look at this topic: The effects of discrimination and stereotypes on behaviors, attitudes, and identity.
Apr
22
The indicators of addiction and substance abuse
April 22, 2024
|
knowledge
Next ASWB exam content item to explore: The indicators of addiction and substance abuse. Let's look at general indictors, then how substance abuse is assessed by social workers in session, followed by some substance-by-
Apr
19
Educational components, techniques, and methods of supervision
April 19, 2024
|
knowledge
Last post was the supervisee's role in supervision. What about supervisors? One of the ASWB exam content outline items covering that: Educational components, techniques, and methods of supervision.
Apr
17
The supervisee's role in supervision II
April 17, 2024
|
knowledge
Supervision is a repeated topic area in the ASWB exam content outline--so we're covering it extra here, looking again at one, wordy example: The supervisee's role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing, etc.).
Apr
15
Methods to establish program objectives and outcomes
April 15, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up on our ASWB exam outline tour: Methods to establish program objectives and outcomes. With all the clinical material to learn as you're preparing for the exam, it's wise not to ignore mezzo and macro knowledge.
Apr
12
Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
Next up as we jump around in the ASWB exam content outline: Crisis intervention and treatment approaches. This review will be a good overall look at key treatment approaches in social work.
Apr
10
The indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
April 10, 2024
|
knowledge
The indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan is next up in our ASWB exam content outline tour. Let's take it a milestone at a time and then look at how this topic may look on the social work exam.
Apr
08
The indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
When is it time to end treatment? Next up in our tour of the ASWB exam content outline: The indicators of client/client system readiness for termination. Let's dig in and then see how this material may look on the social work licensing exam.
Apr
05
The supervisee's role in supervision
Supervision is a two-way street and an important part of good social work practice. Which is undoubtedly how the ASWB arrived at this exam content outline topic: The supervisee's role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-
Apr
03
Techniques for protecting and enhancing client self-determination
April 3, 2024
|
knowledge
Techniques for protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination is up next in our trek through the ASWB exam outline. Let's take a look.
Self-
Apr
01
Group work techniques and approaches
Next up in our foray into the ASWB exam content outline: Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion). Let's walk through the topic then look at home it might appear on the social work exam.
Mar
29
The elements of a case presentation
March 29, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we navigate our way through the ASWB exam content outline: The elements of a case presentation. Let's review then examine how this info may look on the social work exam.
Mar
27
Primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies
March 27, 2024
|
knowledge
Our expedition through the ASWB exam outline continues with this: Primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies.
Mar
25
Methods to engage and work with involuntary clients/client systems
March 25, 2024
|
knowledge
Eventually we'll run out of ASWB exam content outline topics to examine here. But for now, we've got plenty to go. Next up: Methods to engage and work with involuntary clients/client systems.
Mar
22
Verbal and nonverbal communication techniques
March 22, 2024
|
knowledge
Our path through the ASWB exam content outline continues with this: Verbal and nonverbal communication techniques. Let's examine the topic and how it may appear on the social work licensing exam.
Mar
21
Stress management techniques
March 21, 2024
|
knowledge
|
less stress
Studying this ASWB exam outline topic--stress management techniques--simultaneously prepares you for exam questions and potentially gives you ways to stay calm, cool, and collected in the often stressful run-up to the test itself.
Mar
18
Evidence-based practice
March 18, 2024
|
knowledge
Evidence-based practice -- the phrase comes up all the time in social work settings. And it's part of the ASWB exam outline. But what exactly does it mean and how might the concept appear on the social work licensing exam? Let's take a look.
Mar
15
The social worker's role in the problem-solving process
March 15, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we travel through the ASWB exam content outline: The social worker's role in the problem-solving process.
First, a question: what's that mean exactly?
The Problem-Solving Process
The problem-
Mar
13
The components of case management
March 13, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we tour the ASWB exam content outline: The components of case management. Let's dive right in and help you get that much more ready to pass the ASWB exam.
What is Case Management?
Mar
11
The technique of role play
March 11, 2024
|
knowledge
Our journey through the ASWB exam outline continues. Next stop: The technique of role play. Let's study up and then see how questions on the topic might look on the social work licensing exam.
Mar
07
Couples interventions and treatment approaches
March 7, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up as we work our way through the ASWB exam content outline: Couples interventions and treatment approaches. Some--but not all--of this is likely familiar material.
Mar
06
The impact of transference and countertransference in the social worker-client/client system relationship
March 6, 2024
|
knowledge
The impact of transference and countertransference in the social worker-client/client system relationship is next up in our tour of the ASWB exam content outline. Let's take a look at the concepts--
Mar
04
Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
March 4, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's another ASWB exam content outline item that's good to stay mindful of for everyday social work practice: Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue.
Feb
29
Techniques to identify and resolve ethical dilemmas
Continuing through the ASWB exam content outline, we come to: Techniques to identify and resolve ethical dilemmas. This is good, essential social work and good essential exam prep. Let's dive in to get you ready to pass the ASWB exam!
Feb
28
Psychoeducation methods (e.g., acknowledging, supporting, normalizing)
February 28, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up in our ASWB exam content outline tour: Psychoeducation methods (e.g., acknowledging, supporting, normalizing).
Feb
26
Techniques used to evaluate a client's/client system's progress
The ASWB exam content outline tour we're doing continues with this topic: Techniques used to evaluate a client's/client system's progress. Simply put, the topic is, "How do I know how a client is doing?
Feb
23
The impact of the political environment on policy-making
February 23, 2024
|
knowledge
The ASWB exam content outline's service delivery section gets macro with this topic: The impact of the political environment on policy-making.
Feb
21
The principles of case recording, documentation, and management of practice records
February 21, 2024
|
knowledge
Another mouthful from the ASWB exam content outline: The principles of case recording, documentation, and management of practice records. Let's break that into sections to help you get ready to pass the social work licensing exam.
Feb
19
Role modeling techniques
Next up in our tour of the ASWB exam outline: Role modeling techniques. Read up to get prepared for the social work licensing exam. Stick around for the free practice question at the end of the post!
Feb
16
Anger management techniques
February 16, 2024
|
knowledge
Here's an ASWB exam content outline item you already likely know a good deal about: Anger management techniques. Let's look at this from a few angles to get you ready to pass the social work licensing exam.
In Social Work
Here's a start-to-
Feb
14
The criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities
February 14, 2024
|
knowledge
Continuing through the ASWB exam content outline, here's a mouthful of a topic: The criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, culture, life stage).
Feb
12
Methods to assess ego strengths (including tools)
February 12, 2024
|
knowledge
The ASWB exam outline brings us now to this topic: Methods to assess ego strengths. Let's take a look.
Approaches
Assessing ego strengths is crucial for understanding an individual's capacity for resilience, coping mechanisms, and overall well-being.
Feb
09
Psychological defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
The ASWB exam content outline journeys into ego psychology with this item: Psychological defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships.
Feb
07
Methods to assess organizational functioning (e.g., agency assessments)
Agency and community questions seem to have grabbed a greater portion of social work licensing exam questions than they once claimed. The ASWB exam content outline has had those topics all along.
Feb
05
The characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
February 5, 2024
|
knowledge
The ASWB exam content outline walk-through continues. This time: The characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. You probably have a good sense of this without reading up. But let's explore.
Feb
02
Methods to obtain sensitive information (e.g., substance abuse, sexual abuse)
February 2, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up in our tour of the ASWB exam content outline: Methods to obtain sensitive information (e.g., substance abuse, sexual abuse). This is good, essential social work material. The methods--listed below--
Feb
01
Congruence and Genuineness in Psychotherapy
Congruence and genuineness are essential concepts in person-centered therapy developed by Carl Rogers. These terms are often used interchangeably and are crucial for building a therapeutic relationship.
Jan
31
The principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship
January 31, 2024
|
knowledge
Forging through the ASWB exam content outline, we get to: The principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship. This is the basics. Building rapport, keeping rapport. How do you do it?
Jan
29
The principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
Back for more ASWB exam outline exploration. Next up: The principles and processes of obtaining informed consent. Let's dive in.
Jan
26
Basic and applied research design and methods
January 26, 2024
|
knowledge
This topic--research design--I don't made appearance in my MSW classes. Did it in yours? It doesn't seem terribly likely to show up on the licensing exam. But it's in the ASWB exam content outline, so, just in case, let's review.
Jan
24
The principles and features of objective and subjective data
The ASWB exam content outline keeps on going, and we keep on digging in. This time: The principles and features of objective and subjective data. This one's pretty straightforward.
Jan
22
Discharge, aftercare, and follow-up planning
January 22, 2024
|
knowledge
Next up on our ASWB exam content outline tour: Discharge, aftercare, and follow-up planning. If you've worked at any of these, you know they're not so simple--something like juggling while balancing something on your head--
Jan
17
Social Learning Theory
Putting together the theories of human development a few posts ago, realized that we've somehow never posted about social learning theory here. Let's fix that and then take a look how this material may appear on the social work licensing exam.
Jan
15
Methods to assess ego strengths
January 15, 2024
|
knowledge
|
aswb exam outline
Another visit to the ASWB exam content outline brings this item: Methods to assess ego strengths. Let's explore...
Jan
10
Theories of human development throughout the lifespan
January 10, 2024
|
knowledge
Top line of the current ASWB exam content outline: Theories of human development throughout the lifespan (e.g., physical, social, emotional, cognitive, behavioral). So, "Everything you wanted to know about human development, but were afraid to ask"?
Jan
08
Exam Topic: Basic Human Needs
January 8, 2024
|
knowledge
Another stop on the ASWB exam content train: Basic human needs. You might think this material has been covered elsewhere in the outline (and on this blog). Yes. Yes, it has. But apparently the ASWB really wants you have a good look at this content.
Jan
03
Co-occurring disorders and conditions
January 3, 2024
|
knowledge
Returning to the ASWB exam content outline, let's look at co-occurring disorders and conditions. Lets get some facts down and then look at how the topic may appear on the social work licensing exam.
Co-Occurring Disorders
First, a definition: Co-
Dec
21
Strengths-based and resilience theories
Strengths-based and resilience theories is next up in our tour of the ASWB exam content outline. Let's take a look at the topic and how it may show up on the licensing exam.
Strengths-Based Theory
Strengths-
Dec
18
Basic principles of human genetics
December 18, 2023
|
knowledge
Continuing through the ASWB exam outline, a topic you may not have considered much since high school biology: Basic principles of human genetics. Let's get some fundamentals reloaded, just in case something from the topic appears on the ASWB exam.
Dec
14
The principles of attachment and bonding
December 14, 2023
|
knowledge
Continuing our tour of the ASWB exam content outline, next up: The principles of attachment and bonding. Below, what you need to know on the topic to handle questions on the ASWB exam.
Dec
11
Gerontology and the Social Work Exam
December 11, 2023
|
knowledge
Here's another overly broad ASWB exam outline item for review: Gerontology.
"Gerontology?!" you may ask. "All of it? People get master's degrees in gerontology. Do I need to get another master's?" Answer: no.
Dec
06
The principles of active listening and observation
December 6, 2023
|
knowledge
From the ASWB exam content outline, a simple topic: The principles of active listening and observation. Let's take a look at the info and then at how this topic may appear on the social work licensing exam.
Dec
04
Spotlight: Factors influencing self-image
December 4, 2023
|
knowledge
Here's a ASWB exam content outline item worth another look: Factors influencing self-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, disability, trauma). The e.g.
Dec
01
Symptoms of neurologic and organic disorders
December 1, 2023
|
knowledge
Here's a broad and vague item on in the ASWB exam content outline: Symptoms of neurologic and organic disorders. Which disorders? They're not saying. Do they mean all possible organic disorders?
Nov
28
The indicators of traumatic stress and violence
November 28, 2023
|
knowledge
From the Assessment and Diagnosis section of the ASWB exam outline, an important topic: The indicators of traumatic stress and violence. Let's review.
Nov
22
Basic Human Needs
November 22, 2023
|
knowledge
From the ASWB exam content outline, another topic to explore as you prepare for the social work exam: Basic human needs. What's your first thought on the topic? Probably Maslow. Which is likely how exam item writers will approach the topic.
Nov
20
The impact of the transitioning process on behaviors, attitudes, identity, and relationships
November 20, 2023
|
knowledge
From the Diversity and Discrimination section of the ASWB exam content outline: The impact of transgender and transitioning process on behaviors, attitudes, identity, and relationships. Not sure how they arrived at that wording.
Nov
16
Basic Medical Terminology for Social Workers
November 16, 2023
|
knowledge
From the ASWB exam content outline, a door into a whole world of info you might be expected to know: Basic medical terminology.
Well, that could mean lots of different things.
Nov
13
Methods of Conflict Resolution
November 13, 2023
|
knowledge
Methods of conflict resolution is a quick line in the ASWB exam content outline, but there's more than a quick line's worth of knowledge to familiarize yourself with ahead of the social work licensing exam.
Nov
08
The components of a biopsychosocial assessment
November 8, 2023
|
knowledge
Here's a small part of the social work licensing exam that's a big part of social work: biopsychosocial assessments. (In the outline, it's the components of a biopsychosocial assessment.
Nov
06
Trauma-Informed Care
November 6, 2023
|
knowledge
Trauma-informed care makes a several appearances on the ASWB exam content outline. It makes good sense to understand the topic before sitting down for the social work licensing exam.
Nov
02
ASWB Exam Topic: The indicators of addiction and substance abuse
November 2, 2023
|
knowledge
From the ASWB content outline--and from everyday social work practice--a topic: The indicators of addiction and substance abuse. Let's discuss.
Oct
31
Somatization and Somatic Symptom Disorder
What is somatization? Somatization is a psychological phenomenon where emotional distress is expressed through physical symptoms. People who somatize often have multiple unexplained physical complaints that may lead to frequent medical visits.
Oct
26
Professional objectivity in the social worker-client/client-system relationship
The ASWB exam includes this item under Professional Development and Use of Self: Professional objectivity in the social worker-client/client-system relationship. The licensing exam will very likely touch on this, so let's explore. A free, ASWB exam-
Oct
23
Interdisciplinary Collaboration and the Social Work Exam
Interdisciplinary collaboration is one of those vague ASWB exam content outline items that it's tempting to ignore. But let's take a look. What do you need to know? And how might this look on the social work licensing exam?
Oct
17
Theories of Conflict and the Social Work Exam
Here's another item from the ASWB exam content outline worth of look: theories of conflict. It's in the HBSE section of a social work exam--
Oct
13
The impact of stress, trauma, and violence
Here's an ASWB content outline item worth a look: The impact of stress, trauma, and violence. Let's explore. A practice question is at the end of the post.
The impact of stress, trauma, and violence on individuals can be profound and multifaceted.
Oct
07
Feminist Theory and the Social Work Exam
Another item on the ASWB's exam outline: feminist theory. Let's review to get you ready to handle any feminist theory questions that come up on the social work licensing exam. We'll finish with a free practice question.
Oct
03
Systems and Ecological Perspectives and Theories
Here's another item from the HBSE section of the ASWB content outline: Systems and ecological perspectives and theories. Let's do a little learning and then top that off with a quick practice question.
Sep
28
Social Work Exam Knowledge: The Impact of Caregiving on Families
Another item from the HBSE section of the ASWB exam content outline: The impact of caregiving on families. Let's brush up on the topic. A free ASWB-exam style practice question follows.
Sep
26
The effect of aging on biopsychosocial functioning
Continuing through the ASWB content exam outline, here's a simple seeming item: The effect of aging on biopsychosocial functioning. Just by living and knowing people--friends, family--you have a handle on much of this material.
Sep
19
Theories of racial, ethnic, and cultural development throughout the lifespan
Here's a item straight from the ASWB content outline: Theories of racial, ethnic, and cultural development throughout the lifespan. You may know them well; they may be entirely new to you.
Sep
11
Theories of Spiritual Development and the Social Work Exam
Right near the top of all levels of the ASWB's content outline is a simple-seeming item: Theories of spiritual development throughout the lifespan.
But there aren't a ton of well-known theories of spiritual development.
Sep
01
The Mental Status Exam
You may not have used the Mental Status Exam (MSE) as a social worker. You may not have encountered much about it at school. But there's lots on it worth knowing as you prepare for the ASWB (and a social work career). Here are some of the essentials.
Aug
17
Understanding Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are characterized by enduring patterns of inner experience and behavior that deviate significantly from cultural norms, causing distress or impairment in functioning.
Aug
14
Substance Intoxication vs. Withdrawal
Substance withdrawal and substance intoxication both come up regularly in social work practice. Don’t be surprised to find them on the ASWB exam!
Here's a breakdown of each term, followed by some substance-by-
Aug
10
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory proposed by Abraham Maslow in the 1940s. The theory suggests that individuals have a hierarchy of needs that must be fulfilled to realize one's full potential.
Aug
07
A Freud Primer
Sigmund Freud (1856–1939) was the founder of psychoanalysis. His groundbreaking work delved into the unconscious mind, proposing that it influences human behavior and emotions.
Aug
04
Theories of Couples Development
A couple has recently started dating and is in the early stages of their relationship. They have just begun to share more personal information with each other, and their interactions are becoming more frequent and intimate.
Aug
03
Understanding Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development
Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development was developed in the 1950s and 1960s, outlining the stages individuals progress through in their moral reasoning from childhood to adulthood.
Aug
03
The Family Life Cycle and the Social Work Exam
Various models and theories have been proposed to describe the stages of the family life cycle. While some models follow a linear progression, others consider more dynamic and diverse family structures.
Jul
31
CBT Primer
July 31, 2023
|
knowledge
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a powerful and widely recognized therapeutic approach that addresses a multitude of mental health issues. Since CBT is evidence-
Jul
27
Erik Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development
Erik Erikson (1902-1994) was a prominent German-American psychologist and psychoanalyst known for his theory on psychosocial development.
Jul
25
The Theorists
Toward a possible big book of exam content, here are some key theorists and their theories--
Jul
08
Hospital Social Work and the ASWB Exam
July 8, 2023
|
knowledge
Someone tells you that a lot of hospital social work questions came up on the ASWB exam. Well, first, they’re not supposed to tell you what they encountered on the exam. But you can’t unhear it.
Jul
03
Macro Practice and the ASWB Exam
Preparing for the ASWB exam, it's easy to get caught up the small details of micro practice (eg, "How many weeks of depression before it can be considered a Major Depressive Episode?"). But don’t sleep on macro practice.
Apr
13
How to Effectively Prepare for the Human Growth and Development Section of the ASWB Exam
April 13, 2023
|
knowledge
There’s an enormous amount of information to get a handle on to pass the exam. Happily, it’s divided into sections. Here, we look at the Human Growth and Development section and how to get yourself ready to pass questions in that topic area.
Jan
13
The principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (ASWB Exam Content Spotlight)
January 13, 2023
|
knowledge
Here's a wordy item from the ASWB content outline. Among the knowledge, skills, and abilities the exam aims to assess. Do you know the principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship?
Jan
03
Characteristics of Perpetrators of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation (ASWB Exam Content Spotlight)
January 3, 2023
|
knowledge
The ASWB exam content outline has this broad topic area: Characteristics of Perpetrators of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation. We asked ChatGPT-an artificial intelligence machine--for a post on the topic.
Dec
23
Person-in-Environment (PIE) Theory (ASWB Exam Content Spotlight)
December 23, 2022
|
knowledge
Person-in-Environment (PIE) theory is a holistic approach to social work practice that recognizes the importance of both individual and environmental factors in understanding a person's well-being and behavior.
Oct
25
New NASW Code of Ethics Updates
The NASW has updated the Code of Ethics, its essential guide to social work practice and a hefty part of the social work licensing exam. Changes for 2020 and 2021 are highlighted here.
Sep
20
Community Organizing and the Social Work Exam
Social workers are not permitted to talk about what they encountered on the ASWB exam and we never ask. Which is how it should be. The social work exam changes fairly regularly.
Apr
07
NASW Ethics 8
Here's a series of articles via the NASW, each tackling another ethics issue (in eight bullet points): Ethics 8. Read through and imagine that you're an exam question writer on the hunt for a new question subject.
Oct
04
Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders
Let's take a look at the Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders chapter of the DSM. How do you distinguish the diagnosis from one another? This could come in handy on the licensing exam.
First, the criteria.
Sep
16
ASWB Exam Practice - "You two are really good are arguing."
Here's a free practice question to help get you ready to pass the ASWB exam.
A couple has been meeting with a social worker for three weeks. They report wanting to work on their marriage.
Jul
11
Pod Save Your ASWB Exam Prep
We used to blognounce every time a new episode of the Social Work Podcast came out. Now, instead of all those posts, you get a once-in-a-while reminder about all the exam-prep-friendly free content that the podcast has in its archives.
Jun
17
ASWB Exam Pratice—Erikson’s Stages
Here's a quick practice question to keep you on your toes.
A man brings his 16-year-old son to a therapy appointment to have him assessed for depression. His son has started wearing black and has dyed his blond hair black.
Feb
19
What's the difference between schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder?
They sound alike and look alike. They're not the same thing. Here's how to tell the difference between schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.
The DSM devotes a chapter to Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders.
Feb
12
What's the Difference Between Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa?
Given the similarities between bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa, binge-eating/purging type, there's room for confusion when making a diagnosis, whether on the ASWB exam or in real life. Let's take a look at what the DSM says about each.
Aug
05
Name That Defense Mechanism
Here's a quick quiz that should help you lock down your ease with defense mechanism. What are defense mechanisms?
Apr
13
Generalized Anxiety Disorder and the Social Work Exam
The theme lately has been anxiety disorders. Let's continue now with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Criteria for GAD are pretty straightforward:
A.
Apr
07
Panic Disorder and the Social Work Exam
Your client reports occasional "freak outs" during which she experiences:
1. Palpitations
2. Sweating
3. Trembling
4. Shortness of breath
5. Choking feelings
6. Chest pain
7. Nausea
8. Dizziness
9. Chills
10. Numbness
11. Feelings of unreality
12.
Apr
02
Social Anxiety Disorder and the Social Work Exam
Social anxiety disorder aka SAD aka social phobia is one of those diagnoses, like OCD or PTSD, that many people use casually to describe non-clinical symptoms (eg, "I really don't want to go to that party, my social phobia's kicking in.
Mar
09
The Patient Self-Determination Act and the Social Work Exam
March 9, 2016
|
knowledge
The Patient Self-Determination Act of 1990 directly affects social work clients and social work practice (and social work paperwork). Among other things, it made advance directives a required part of health care. Cancer.
Mar
08
The ADA and the Social Work Exam
March 8, 2016
|
knowledge
We continue our survey of social work exam-relevant federal policy. Next up, the Americans with Disabilities Act. Here's some background from ADA.
Mar
07
The Indian Child Welfare Act and the Social Work Exam
March 7, 2016
|
knowledge
So much of the
social work exam is taken up with practice questions--ethics,
diagnosis, and the like-- it's easy to forget another giant part of
the social work: policy. We'll take a look at some essentials over
a series of posts.
Aug
01
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
Here begins a series of quick posts highlighting big diagnostic changes that appear in DSM-5. First up for spotlighting: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD).
Jul
08
HIPAA and the Social Work Exam
Here's something you can reasonably expect to see covered on the social work licensing exam: the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, HIPAA for short.
Apr
01
Maslow for the Social Work Exam
It's Abraham Maslow's birthday (4/1). Happy Birthday, Maslow! It's as good a time as any to review Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Picture it as a big, pyramidal birthday cake, if that helps you get them understood.
Mar
30
Social Work Case Presentations
March 30, 2015
|
knowledge
If you take ASWB exam content outlines to heart, you've got a lot of information to learn before sitting for the social work licensing exam. The outlines (available at aswb.org--
Feb
25
Knowing Bowlby
How are you on John Bowlby? Knowing some basic Bowlby is wise as you approach the social work licensing exam. Good news: it's relatively simple, and probably already built in to your understanding of how people work.
Jan
29
Social Work Exam Resource: Wiki Psychology
January 29, 2015
|
knowledge
Once upon a time--just a few years back--there was no difficulty locating people who frowned upon using Wikipedia as a reliable source of information. "Crowd-sourced" seemed to equal "iffy." Things change fast.
Jan
20
Residential Treatment and the Social Work Exam
January 20, 2015
|
knowledge
If you've been taking social work licensing exam practice questions, you've no doubt encountered items that require you to know when reporting and hospitalization are required.
Aug
04
Jean Piaget and the Social Work Exam
August 4, 2014
|
knowledge
August 9th is Jean Piaget's birthday. Consider marking the occasion by brushing up on the parts of Piaget's work that you might encounter on the social work licensing exam. Here's About.
Jul
07
Interpersonal Psychotherapy and the Social Work Exam
What is Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)? We could go into some detail, but then Wikipedia has it laid out so nicely, why waste your time?
Jun
18
Defense Mechanisms and the Social Work Exam
One way to anticipate what may appear on the social work licensing exam is to think what you might write as a question if the task fell to you.
May
27
The Transtheoretical Model and the Social Work Exam
While the social work exam may not refer to the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), there's a pretty good chance you'll encounter an exam question about the Stages of Change.
May
22
Bowenian Family Therapy and the Social Work Exam
Murray Bowen is credited by some with generating a wholly new way of thinking about human behavior. That new way: Family Systems Theory, put into action as Bowenian Famliy Therapy.
May
18
Person-Centered Therapy and the Social Work Exam
May 18, 2014
|
knowledge
Person-Centered Therapy (sometimes PCT) is the default setting for the majority of psychotherapists practicing today.
May
14
Crisis Intervention and the Social Work Exam
While touring various theories and interventions that may come up on the social work exam, don't forget to take some time for something that you can be fairly certain to encounter on the big test (and in social work practice): crisis intervention.
May
12
Solution-Focused Therapy and the Social Work Exam
May 12, 2014
|
knowledge
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT; also Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, SFBT) got a mention a couple of posts ago, but deserves some space of its own--it's not unheard of for SFT to show up on the social work licensing exam. What's SFT?
May
08
Existential Therapy and the Social Work Exam
Did you have to read The Stranger or maybe some Sartre in school? If so, you know something about existentialism. If not, or if you need brushing up, here's Merriam-
May
05
Gestalt Therapy and the Social Work Exam
Once you've got down the basics--CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and the like--you're ready to dig deeper in your licensing exam prep. That means you'll be putting together knowledge about material that may not actually appear on the exam.
May
03
Psychodynamic Therapy and the Social Work Exam
For most vignette questions on the social work licensing exam where a client presents with a problem and the social worker needs to choose the BEST intervention, you'll be given a choice between something here-and-now, problem-
Apr
21
DBT and the Social Work Exam
Here's another therapy you shouldn't be surprised to see appear on the social work licensing exam: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). What's DBT? Here are some quick answers to that question--
Apr
08
CBT and the Social Work Exam
A good general guideline for the social work licensing exam: "When in doubt, it's CBT."
Why?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is research validated therapy practice. That is, it works--studies say so.
Mar
19
Social Work Exam Resource: Human Development Theory
March 19, 2014
|
knowledge
Part of effective prepping for the social work licensing exam is gauging just how much is necessary to know about a given topic to get through the test. There's so much information that can potentially end up on the exam.
Dec
02
Social Workers and Subpoenas
December 2, 2013
|
knowledge
You can cross your fingers through your entire social work career and hope to never receive a subpoena. But that's a lot of finger-crossing, and finger-crossing's unlikely to help you on the social work licensing exam.
Oct
13
Salvador Minuchin for Social Workers
October 13, 2013
|
knowledge
Posting on Salvador Minuchin's birthday (October 13th). A good day for brushing up on Structural Family Therapy for the social work exam.
Oct
10
Behavioral Psych and the Social Work Exam
The principles of behavioral psychology are easy to learn...and just as easy to confuse or forget.
Oct
02
Kohlberg and the Social Work Exam
Worth reviewing for the social work licensing exam, Lawrence Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development. Pick your source--they all say more-or-less the same thing:
from SimplyPsych
from Wikipedia
from About
Here's a video walk-
Sep
19
Erik Erikson and the Social Work Exam
Here's more material you may have known for a moment in school and then forgotten: Erik Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development. Now worth reviewing as you prepare for the social work licensing exam. About.
Sep
13
Freud and the Social Work Exam
Try SWTP's Freud Primer--everything you could possibly need to know on the topic for the exam. Or, via AllPsych.
Sep
05
Mental Disorders from A to Z
The Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders offers quick definitions of psych concepts from the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (not on the exam) to Zolpidem (a med also not likely to show on the exam).
Jul
24
Encyclopedia of Social Work Online
July 24, 2013
|
knowledge
The NASW and Oxford University Press have launched a new, online Encyclopedia of Social Work. It's not clear what access will cost, but the whole site is free through August, 2013. Great for free social work exam prepping for now.
Jul
02
Ethical Decision-Making in Social Work
Looking for more guidance about social work ethics? Here's a textbook, Ethical Decision-Making in Social Work, by Wade Robison and Linda Cherrey Reeser, posted in its entirety by the Rochester Institute of Technology. No charge.
Jun
28
Erikson, Piaget, and Kohlberg Stages
June 28, 2013
|
knowledge
From UsefulCharts.com, here are Erikson, Piaget, and Kohlberg's stages laid out and photo-accompanied for your exam prepping needs.
Feb
05
LCSW Exam Help
February 5, 2013
|
knowledge
Load up on exam-friendly psych knowledge at Simply Psychology.
The site includes entries about psych basics and beyond from A
(Abnormal Psychology) to Z (Zone of Proximal Development).
Jan
17
Understanding Attachment Theory
Attachment in eight minutes:
Find more helpful video on SWTP's YouTube channel.
Too long; didn't watch?
Jan
14
Psychology 101
Looking for free review of the psych basics that might be covered on the social work exam? You could do much worse than the Psychology 101 course offered on AllPsych.com.
Jan
13
Motivational Interviewing
Good to know for the exam: Motivational Interviewing. A definition from now-lost SAMSHA pages (use these UMASS training pages instead):
[A] collaborative, person-centered form of guiding to elicit and strengthen motivation for change.
Jan
12
Family Systems Therapy
January 12, 2013
|
knowledge
Everything you ever wanted to know about Family Systems Therapy (or may need to know to help you pass the ASWB exam) is here (Psychology Today).
Dec
13
Studying for the Social Work Exam
Or just check out this best ways to study for the social work exam list:
Start early. The earlier you start studying, the more time you will have to cover the material and the less stressed you will feel.
Create a study schedule.
Dec
02
Code of Ethics: Confidentiality
December 2, 2012
|
knowledge
Section 1.07 of the NASW Code of Ethics--Privacy and Confidentiality. Know it, learn it, exam it. It begins like this:
(a) Social workers should respect clients' right to privacy.
Sep
17
LCSW Study Buddy
September 17, 2010
|
knowledge
A welcome to new social work exam blog, LCSW Study Buddy. Just a handful of posts up as of this writing, but useful stuff and made fun, as in this post looking at ego defenses as exemplified by Friends characters. From there:
Intellectualization --
Mar
04
Code of Ethics: Physical Contact
March 4, 2010
|
knowledge
You may get a "hug" question on the social work exam. Let the Code of Ethics be your guide:
1.
Feb
15
Code of Ethics: Social and Political Action
February 15, 2010
|
knowledge
For your Presidents Day review, section 6.04 of the NASW's Code of Ethics, "Social and Political Action.
Jan
28
Code of Ethics: Payment for Services
January 28, 2010
|
knowledge
Another test-prep helping code of ethics section for your review: Payment for Services.
1.13 Payment for Services
(a) When setting fees, social workers should ensure that the fees are fair, reasonable, and commensurate with the services performed.
Jan
25
Informed Consent
January 25, 2010
|
knowledge
Not a fill-in-the-blank, not a multiple choice, just an excerpt, 'cause you need to know this. Section 1.03 of the Code of Ethics: Informed Consent.
Nov
10
Glossary of Psychiatric Terms
November 10, 2009
|
knowledge
On Wikipedia, here's a glossary of psychiatric terms, from abreaction to zoophilia. May come in handy.
Abreaction, by the way, is--says Wikipedia--a process of vividly reliving repressed memories and emotions related to a past event.
Aug
05
IED v. AAB v. APD
August 5, 2009
|
knowledge
Sorting through the DSM alphabet:
Intermittent Explosive Disorder
Intermittent explosive disorder is characterized by repeated episodes of aggressive, violent behavior in which you react grossly out of proportion to the situation.
Aug
05
DSM-IV Training Guide
August 5, 2009
|
knowledge
Hey, check it out. DSM help in a book. Exam-prep-o-riffic. Happy browsing...
UPDATE: Here's DSM-5 help via the same source.
The ASWB exam assesses social workers' knowledge and understanding of the DSM.
Jul
31
Primary Insomnia
July 31, 2009
|
knowledge
Via emedicine:
Primary insomnia is sleeplessness that is not attributable to a medical, psychiatric, or environmental cause. Case study A 56-year-old woman reports difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.