Against professional advice, Joe, a psychiatric patient, wants to leave the rehabilitation center in the middle of an ongoing treatment. In this scenario, which of the following would be the best response that a social worker can give him?
A)We will not be responsible for the harm you may cause yourself by this decision.
B)What do you think about the staff's recommendation about your readiness?
C)We wish you well with your plans and hope that your resolution will keep you safe.
D)If you do not continue your psychiatric treatment, you will no longer be able to perform your daily activities.

Question

Against professional advice, Joe, a psychiatric patient, wants to leave the rehabilitation center in the middle of an ongoing treatment. In this scenario, which of the following would be the best response that a social worker can give him?
A)​We will not be responsible for the harm you may cause yourself by this decision.
B)​What do you think about the staff's recommendation about your readiness?
C)​We wish you well with your plans and hope that your resolution will keep you safe.
D)​If you do not continue your psychiatric treatment, you will no longer be able to perform your daily activities.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a social worker, it is important to respect the client's autonomy and their ability to make their own decisions. However, it is also important to provide them with information and ask questions that make them reconsider their decision. Option B is a good response as it acknowledges the client's decision while also asking about the staff's recommendation and prompting the client to think about their readiness to leave. Option A sounds threatening and may not be effective. Option C sounds dismissive and may not address the potential harm the client may face. Option D is not the best response as it is not always true and may sound like a threat.

Against Professional Advice, Joe, a Psychiatric Patient, Wants to Leave