Social Work ASWB Masters Exam Guide: A Comprehensive Study Guide for Success

“Dawn gave us the tools we needed to take the exam, and let me tell you - she was on point! Not only did she cover the content areas we needed to focus in on, but she also showed us how to read and interpret the questions on the exam.”

—Ammu D. Kowolik, LMSW, McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research

Students and social workers preparing for the social work masters licensure exam will find an invaluable study resource in the Social Work ASWB® Masters Exam Guide. Written by a prominent social work leader and trainer for social work licensing exams in the United States, this guide is based on years of time-tested exam prep workshops conducted by the author. It mirrors the ASWB Masters “Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities” upon which the exam is based and incorporates information from the DSM-5®.

The guide is comprehensive yet focuses on the material most likely to be included on the exam, so readers can prioritize information as they study. A self-assessment section helps identify strengths and weaknesses before tackling the material. The author shares her extensive knowledge of the exam by providing useful test-taking strategies and tips for overcoming test anxiety. The 170-question practice test at the end of the guide (with explanations of the correct answers) mirrors the actual exam in both length and structure. Content includes human development, diversity, abuse and neglect, assessment and intervention planning, direct and indirect (micro and macro) practice, and professional values and ethics. This book will be a valuable asset for social workers throughout the United States and Canada.

Key Features:

  • Developed by a highly respected educator of social work licensure candidates
  • Covers all the content areas on the masters examination, including new content added in 2015
  • Begins with a self-assessment section to help identify areas of strength and weakness
  • Offers a wealth of test-taking tips and strategies to foster exam confidence
  • Includes a practice test (with explanations of the correct answers) that mirrors the exam

ASWB® is a registered service mark of the Association of Social Work Boards, which neither sponsors nor endorses this product.

1136278227
Social Work ASWB Masters Exam Guide: A Comprehensive Study Guide for Success

“Dawn gave us the tools we needed to take the exam, and let me tell you - she was on point! Not only did she cover the content areas we needed to focus in on, but she also showed us how to read and interpret the questions on the exam.”

—Ammu D. Kowolik, LMSW, McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research

Students and social workers preparing for the social work masters licensure exam will find an invaluable study resource in the Social Work ASWB® Masters Exam Guide. Written by a prominent social work leader and trainer for social work licensing exams in the United States, this guide is based on years of time-tested exam prep workshops conducted by the author. It mirrors the ASWB Masters “Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities” upon which the exam is based and incorporates information from the DSM-5®.

The guide is comprehensive yet focuses on the material most likely to be included on the exam, so readers can prioritize information as they study. A self-assessment section helps identify strengths and weaknesses before tackling the material. The author shares her extensive knowledge of the exam by providing useful test-taking strategies and tips for overcoming test anxiety. The 170-question practice test at the end of the guide (with explanations of the correct answers) mirrors the actual exam in both length and structure. Content includes human development, diversity, abuse and neglect, assessment and intervention planning, direct and indirect (micro and macro) practice, and professional values and ethics. This book will be a valuable asset for social workers throughout the United States and Canada.

Key Features:

  • Developed by a highly respected educator of social work licensure candidates
  • Covers all the content areas on the masters examination, including new content added in 2015
  • Begins with a self-assessment section to help identify areas of strength and weakness
  • Offers a wealth of test-taking tips and strategies to foster exam confidence
  • Includes a practice test (with explanations of the correct answers) that mirrors the exam

ASWB® is a registered service mark of the Association of Social Work Boards, which neither sponsors nor endorses this product.

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Social Work ASWB Masters Exam Guide: A Comprehensive Study Guide for Success

Social Work ASWB Masters Exam Guide: A Comprehensive Study Guide for Success

Social Work ASWB Masters Exam Guide: A Comprehensive Study Guide for Success

Social Work ASWB Masters Exam Guide: A Comprehensive Study Guide for Success

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Overview

“Dawn gave us the tools we needed to take the exam, and let me tell you - she was on point! Not only did she cover the content areas we needed to focus in on, but she also showed us how to read and interpret the questions on the exam.”

—Ammu D. Kowolik, LMSW, McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research

Students and social workers preparing for the social work masters licensure exam will find an invaluable study resource in the Social Work ASWB® Masters Exam Guide. Written by a prominent social work leader and trainer for social work licensing exams in the United States, this guide is based on years of time-tested exam prep workshops conducted by the author. It mirrors the ASWB Masters “Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities” upon which the exam is based and incorporates information from the DSM-5®.

The guide is comprehensive yet focuses on the material most likely to be included on the exam, so readers can prioritize information as they study. A self-assessment section helps identify strengths and weaknesses before tackling the material. The author shares her extensive knowledge of the exam by providing useful test-taking strategies and tips for overcoming test anxiety. The 170-question practice test at the end of the guide (with explanations of the correct answers) mirrors the actual exam in both length and structure. Content includes human development, diversity, abuse and neglect, assessment and intervention planning, direct and indirect (micro and macro) practice, and professional values and ethics. This book will be a valuable asset for social workers throughout the United States and Canada.

Key Features:

  • Developed by a highly respected educator of social work licensure candidates
  • Covers all the content areas on the masters examination, including new content added in 2015
  • Begins with a self-assessment section to help identify areas of strength and weakness
  • Offers a wealth of test-taking tips and strategies to foster exam confidence
  • Includes a practice test (with explanations of the correct answers) that mirrors the exam

ASWB® is a registered service mark of the Association of Social Work Boards, which neither sponsors nor endorses this product.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9780826172044
Publisher: Springer Publishing Company
Publication date: 05/11/2015
Sold by: Barnes & Noble
Format: eBook
Pages: 352
File size: 1 MB

About the Author

Dawn Apgar, PhD, LSW, ACSW, has helped thousands of social workers across the country pass the ASWB examinations associated with all levels of licensure. In recent years, she has consulted in numerous states to assist with establishing licensure test preparation programs.

Dr. Apgar has done research on licensure funded by the American Foundation for Research and Consumer Education in Social Work Regulation and was chairperson of her state's social work licensing board. She is a past President of the New Jersey Chapter of NASW and has been on its National Board of Directors. In 2014, the Chapter presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Apgar has taught in both undergraduate and graduate social work programs and has extensive direct practice, policy, and management experience in the social work field.

Table of Contents

Contents

Preface

Acknowledgments

Share Social Work ASWB® Masters Exam Guide: A Comprehensive Study Guide for Success

Introduction

About the Examination

10 Things That You Should Know About the ASWB Examinations

Test-Taking Strategies

10 Essential Strategies for Study Success

20 Tips You Need to Use to Answer Questions Correctly

Assessing Examination Difficulties

Dealing With Test Anxiety

Examination Content

Visual Learners

Auditory Learners

Kinesthetic or Hands-On Learners

Self-Assessment

Unit I: Human Development, Diversity, and Behavior in the Environment (28%)

1. Theories and Models

Developmental Theories

Systems Theory

Family Theories

Family Therapy Approaches

Group Theories

Key Concepts

Psychodynamic Theories

Psychoanalytic Theory

Psychosexual Stages of Development

Individual Psychology

Self Psychology

Ego Psychology

Stages of Psychosocial Development

Object Relations Theory

Behavioral, Cognitive, and Learning Theories

Behavioral Theory

Cognitive Theory

Learning Theory

Community Development Theories

Person-in-Environment

Addiction Theories and Concepts

Communication Theories

Defense Mechanisms

Normal and Abnormal Behavior

Indicators of Normal Physical Growth and Development

Adult Development

Effects of Life Crises

Impact of Stress, Trauma, and Violence

Emotional Development

Sexual Development

Aging Processes

Family Life Cycle

Family Dynamics and Functioning

Cognitive Development

Social Development

Child Development

Basic Human Needs

Adolescent Development

Human Genetics

Gender Roles

Impact of Environment on Individuals

Impact of Physical, Mental, and Cognitive Disabilities on Human Development

Interplay of Biological, Psychological, and Social Factors

Effects of Family Dynamics on Individuals

Dynamics of Grief and Loss

Impacts of Economic Change on Client Systems

Effects of Body Image on Self and Relationships

Cultural, Racial, and Ethnic Identity Development

Strengths Perspective

2. Abuse and Neglect

Abuse and Neglect Concepts

Indicators and Dynamics of Sexual Abuse

Indicators and Dynamics of Psychological Abuse and Neglect

Indicators of Physical Abuse and Neglect

Characteristics of Abuse Perpetrators

Indicators and Dynamics of Exploitation

3. Diversity, Social/Economic Justice, and Oppression

Influences of Culture, Race, and/or Ethnicity on Behaviors and Attitudes

White American

American Indian/Alaska Native

Asian

African American

Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander

Hispanic/Latino

Influence of Sexual Orientation and/or Gender Identity on Behavior and Attitudes

Influence of Disability on Behavior and Attitudes

Effects of Differences in Values

Impacts of Cultural Heritage on Self-Image

Impacts of Spirituality and/or Religious Beliefs on Behavior and Attitudes

Effects of Discrimination

Systematic (Institutionalized) Discrimination

Professional Commitment to Promoting Justice

Impact of Social Institutions on Society

Family

Religion

Government

Education

Economics

Impact of Diversity on Styles of Communicating

Influence of Age on Behavior and Attitudes

Unit II: Assessment and Intervention Planning (24%)

4. Biopsychosocial History and Collateral Data

Psychopharmacology

Antipsychotics

Antimanic Agents (Mood Stabilizers)

Antidepressants

Antianxiety Drugs

Stimulants

Components of a Biopsychosocial History

Components of a Sexual History

Common Prescription Medications

Other Commonly Prescribed Medications

Components of a Family History

Basic Medical Terminology

Symptoms of Neurologic and Organic Processes

Some Common Neurologic Symptoms

Indicators of Sexual Dysfunction

Indicators of Psychosocial Stress

Indicators of Traumatic Stress and Violence

Indicators of Substance Abuse and Other Addictions

Signs of Drug Use

5. Use of Assessment Methods and Techniques

Use of Collateral Sources to Obtain Relevant Information

Methods to Evaluate Collateral Information

Process Used in Problem Identification

Methods of Involving Client’s Communication Skills

Use of Observation

Methods of Involving Clients in Identifying Problems

Indicators of Client’s Strengths and Challenges

Use of Assessment/Diagnostic Instruments in Practice

Beck Depression Inventory

The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory

Myers–Briggs Type Indicator

Rorschach Inkblot Test

Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scale

Thematic Apperception Test

Wechsler Intelligence Scale

Methods to Organize Information

Current DSM® Diagnostic Framework and Criteria

Components and Function of the Mental Status Examination

Process of Social Work Assessment/Diagnosis

Methods Used in Assessing Ego Strength

Methods Used to Assess Community Strengths and Challenges

Methods Used in Risk Assessment

Indicators of Client Danger to Self or Others

Indicators of Motivation and Resistance

Methods to Identify Service Needs of Clients

Use of Interviewing Techniques

Process of Assessing the Client’s Needed Level of Care

6. Intervention Planning

Factors Used in Determining the Client’s Readiness/Ability to Participate in Services

Criteria Used in Selecting Intervention Modalities

Components of an Intervention or Service Plan

Human Development Considerations in the Creation of an Intervention Plan

Methods Used to Develop an Intervention Plan

Techniques Used to Establish Measurable Intervention or Service Plans

Methods Used to Involve Clients in Intervention Planning

Methods for Planning Interventions With Groups

Methods for Planning Interventions With Organizations and Communities

Cultural Considerations in the Creation of an Intervention Plan

Unit III: Direct and Indirect Practice (21%)

7. Direct (Micro)

Client Advocacy

Empowerment Process

Methods Used in Working With Involuntary Clients

Psychosocial Approach

Components of the Problem-Solving Process

Crisis Intervention Approach

Task-Centered Practice

Short-Term Interventions

Methods Used to Provide Educational Services to Clients

Methods of Conflict Resolution

Use of Case Management

Techniques Used to Evaluate a Client’s Progress

Use of Contracting and Goal-Setting With Clients

Change Strategies

Use of Timing in Intervention

Phases of Intervention

Indicators of Client Readiness for Termination

Techniques Used for Follow-Up in Social Work Practice

Use of Active Listening Skills

Techniques Used to Motivate Clients

Techniques Used to Teach Skills to Clients

Use and Effects of Out-of-Home Placement

Methods Used to Develop Behavioral Objectives

Client Self-Motivating Techniques

Techniques of Role-Play

Assertiveness Training

Role-Modeling Techniques

Limit Setting

Methods Used to Develop Learning Objectives With Clients

Models of Intervention With Families

Couples Intervention/Treatment Approaches

Interventions With Groups

Techniques for Working With Individuals Within the Group Context

Use of Expertise From Other Disciplines

Approaches Used in Consultation

Processes of Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Methods Used to Coordinate Services Among Service Providers

Multidisciplinary Team Approach

Case Recording and Record-Keeping

Methods Used to Facilitate Communication

Verbal and Nonverbal Communication Techniques

Techniques That Explore the Underlying Meaning of Communication

Methods Used to Obtain/Provide Feedback

Methods Used to Interpret and Communicate Policies and Procedures

Methods Used to Clarify the Benefits and Limitations of Resources With Clients

Use of Case Recording for Practice Evaluation or Supervision

Use of Single-Subject Design in Practice

Evaluation of Practice

Interpreting and Applying Research Findings to Practice

Process Used to Refer Clients for Services

Use of Cognitive Behavioral Techniques

Steps in Cognitive Restructuring

Culturally Competent Social Work Practice

8. Indirect (Macro)

Applying Concepts of Organizational Theories

Classical Organizational Theories

Neoclassical Theories

Modern Organizational Approaches

Impact of Social Welfare Legislation on Social Work Practice

Methods Used to Establish Service Networks or Community Resources

Techniques for Mobilizing Community Participation

Techniques of Social Planning Methods

Techniques of Social Policy Analysis

Techniques to Influence Social Policy

Techniques of Working With Large Groups

Use of Networking

Approaches to Culturally Competent Practice With Organizations and Communities

Advocacy With Communities and Organizations

Impact of Agency Policy and Function on Service Delivery

Unit IV: Professional Relationships, Values, and Ethics (27%)

9. Professional Values and Ethical Issues

Professional Values and Ethics

Client Self-Determination

Intrinsic Worth and Value of the Individual

Client’s Right to Refuse Services

Ethical Issues Regarding Termination

Bioethical Issues

Identification and Resolution of Ethical Dilemmas

Essential Steps in Ethical Problem-Solving

Applying Ethics to Practice Situations

Responsibility to Seek Supervision

Use of Professional Development to Improve Practice

Professional Boundaries

10. Confidentiality

Legal and Ethical Issues Regarding Confidentiality, Including Electronic Communication

Use of Client Records

Ethical and Legal Issues Regarding Mandatory Reporting

Obtaining Informed Consent

11. Social Worker Roles and Responsibilities

Social Worker–Client Relationship Patterns

Concept of Empathy

Process of Engagement in Social Work Practice

Concept of a Helping Relationship

Principles of Relationship Building

Professional Objectivity in the Social Worker–Client Relationship

Concepts of Transference and Countertransference

Use of Social Worker–Client Relationship as an Intervention Tool

Social Worker–Client Relationships in Work With Communities and Organizations

Social Worker–Client Relationships in Work With Small Groups

Methods Used to Clarify Roles of the Social Worker

Social Worker’s Roles in the Problem-Solving Process

Client’s Roles in the Problem-Solving Process

Influence of the Social Worker’s Values on the Social Worker–Client Relationship

Dual Relationships

Influence of Cultural Diversity on the Social Worker–Client Relationship

Practice Test

170 Question Practice Test

Answers

Index

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