Individual Practice SWES Practice Test

If a school social worker receives a referral for a child who is disruptive in class, what is the first consideration the social worker should take into account?

1. The child may be creatively gifted

2. The child may be emotionally disturbed

3. The child may be learning disordered

4. The child may be experiencing a home crisis

The correct answer is: The child may be learning disordered

The first consideration for a school social worker upon receiving a referral for a child who is disruptive in class is the possibility that the child may be experiencing a home crisis. Disruptive behavior can often be a manifestation of underlying issues, such as stress or instability in the home environment. Children may not have the capability to express their feelings verbally or may not feel comfortable sharing their personal circumstances, so behavioral disruptions could signal that they are dealing with challenges at home, such as family conflict, trauma, or other crises. Identifying whether a child is experiencing a home crisis is vital because addressing the root cause of the behavior can significantly influence the child's well-being and academic success. Social workers are trained to assess environmental factors, knowing that support from home is crucial for a child's emotional and educational development. If a home crisis is identified, appropriate interventions can be designed, both for the child and their family, fostering a supportive environment that can alleviate the disruptive behavior in school. The other options, while they may suggest other explanations for the child's behavior, do not address the immediate need to understand the possible influence of the child's home life. Addressing potential emotional disturbances, learning disorders, or creative gifts can come later in the assessment process, but understanding the context of the child's