Which of the following is not considered a primary skill necessary for effective social work practice?

Social work practice relies heavily on a range of interpersonal and cognitive skills that facilitate effective engagement with clients and problem-solving in complex situations. Active listening, empathy, and critical thinking are all essential skills in this field.

Active listening is crucial as it enables social workers to fully understand clients' thoughts, feelings, and concerns. This skill ensures that clients feel heard and validated, which can foster trust and rapport in the worker-client relationship.

Empathy allows social workers to relate to clients’ experiences and emotions, providing a supportive environment where clients can express themselves freely. This emotional connection helps social workers to support their clients in more meaningful ways.

Critical thinking is necessary for analyzing situations, evaluating information, and making informed decisions regarding interventions and solutions. Social workers must navigate complex social issues, assess needs, and plan accordingly.

On the other hand, while physical strength can be beneficial in certain contexts, it is not a primary skill associated with effective social work practice. The emphasis in social work is on psychological and emotional skills that facilitate understanding and support for clients in various social contexts. Thus, the correct answer identifies physical strength as not being a primary skill necessary for effective social work.