Which types of assessments might a social worker conduct?

The selection of risk, psychosocial, and strengths assessments reflects a comprehensive approach in social work practice. Each of these assessment types plays a crucial role in understanding a client's situation and developing an effective intervention strategy.

Risk assessments are vital for identifying potential harm to the client or others, which informs safety planning and intervention necessary to mitigate those risks. This is particularly important in cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, or mental health crises.

Psychosocial assessments provide a deeper understanding of the client’s emotional, social, and environmental contexts. These assessments help identify factors that may contribute to the client's challenges, guiding the social worker to better address their needs in both therapeutic and community settings.

Strengths assessments focus on identifying the client’s existing strengths and resources. Recognizing these strengths empowers clients, enhances their resilience, and can facilitate a more positive outlook on their situation. This kind of strength-based approach is essential in promoting client agency and engagement in the therapeutic process.

While the other options also describe relevant assessments in various contexts, such as self-care and performance assessments, or behavioral and crisis assessments, the combination found in the correct choice aligns most closely with the foundational practices in social work, emphasizing the need to assess both risk and resources to inform intervention strategies effectively.