Individual Practice SWES Practice Test

What might indicate that a client is in an acute state of crisis?

1. Decreased responsiveness to treatment

2. Rapid and highly positive change

3. Reflecting on past traumas

4. Increased reliance on the therapist

The correct answer is: Rapid and highly positive change

A rapid and highly positive change can indicate that a client is in an acute state of crisis, particularly when this change is sudden and not characteristic of the client’s usual behavior or progress in therapy. In many cases, individuals experiencing a crisis might exhibit extreme emotional changes or a heightened state of excitement, which could mask underlying distress or turmoil. This can lead to behavior that seems positive on the surface but is actually a sign of instability or an inability to cope effectively with adverse conditions. For instance, a client may receive sudden relief from pent-up feelings but may not have the coping strategies to maintain this newfound positivity, making them more vulnerable. Recognizing such changes is crucial in therapeutic settings, as it allows practitioners to appropriately assess the client’s emotional state and respond with suitable interventions. Other options, such as decreased responsiveness to treatment or reflecting on past traumas, may indicate ongoing issues that need careful attention but do not specifically highlight an acute crisis state. Increased reliance on the therapist can suggest dependency but doesn't necessarily correlate with a crisis.