Social Worker AssessmentThis section should contain the thoughts and opinion of the treating social worker. It is based on the initial observations and information gathering efforts; however, it takes the observations and information to a new level. Here you integrate your view with an understanding of the client\’s problem or situation, its underlying causes contributing factors and the prognosis for change.Summarize your understanding of the clients presenting situation. To do this, draw upon what is known about the current impasse situation that has led to the presenting situation; the social, cultural, familial, psychological, and economic factors that contribute to creating the problem and/or support solutions to the problem. As appropriate, comments on such factors as:• Social emotional functioning – ability to express feelings, ability to learn from relationships, predominant mood or emotional pattern (e.g., optimism, pessimism, anxiety, temperament, characteristic traits, overall role performance and social competence, motivation and commitment to treatment).• Psychological factors – reality testing, impulse control, judgment, insights, memory recall, coping style and problem solving ability, characteristic defense mechanisms, manageable problems. If applicable, include a formal diagnosis (e.g., DSM IV, Global Assessment Scale, etc.)• Environmental issues and constraints or supports from the family, agency, community that affect the situation and its resolution. What does the environment offer for improved functioning (family, friends, church, school, work, clubs, groups, politics, and leisure time activities).• Issues related to cultural or other diversity that offer constraints or supports from the family, agency, community that affect the situation and its resolution.• Strengths and Weaknesses in relation to Needs/Demands/Constraints in which he or she functions (Ego Functioning):o Capacities and skillso Activity patternso Ways of communicatingo Perceptions of him herself and otherso How energy is investedo What disturbs or satisfies him or hero Capacity for empathy and affectiono Affects and moodso Control vs. impulsivityo Spontaneity vs. inhibitiono Handling of sexuality and aggressiveness; dependency needs, self-esteem and anxietyo Attitudes toward authority, peers and otherso Nature of defenseso Method and ability to solve problemsConclude the assessment with a statement about the client’s motivation for help, the agency\’s ability to provide help, and anticipated outcome of services to be provided.
