LMSW Practice Test

In working with a client who exhibits a narcissistic personality disorder, the social worker frequently becomes:

1. 1 and 4

2. 1 and 3

3. 1, 2, and 3

4. 4 only

The correct answer is: 1 and 4

In working with clients who exhibit narcissistic personality disorder, social workers often find themselves feeling overwhelmed due to the challenging dynamics involved in the therapeutic relationship. When a client displays traits of narcissism, such as a need for admiration, grandiosity, and a lack of empathy, the social worker may frequently experience feelings of frustration and discouragement. This is because these clients often have difficulty acknowledging their shortcomings or the impact of their behavior on others, which can lead to a sense of impasse in therapy. Additionally, professionals may feel emotionally drained or disengaged as they navigate the complexities of establishing boundaries and effectively addressing the client's needs without enabling narcissistic behaviors. This requires a balance of maintaining empathy for the client while also striving to hold them accountable in a constructive manner. Thus, the correct answer aligns with the frequent emotional responses that social workers can encounter in this context, reflecting the demands of working with individuals whose behaviors can challenge the therapeutic process.