Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

What diagnosis might a social worker consider for an 18-year-old experiencing loss of sensation in his hand after his father's death?

1. Depression

2. Somatic symptom and related disorder

3. Anxiety disorder

4. Post-traumatic stress disorder

The correct answer is: Somatic symptom and related disorder

In this scenario, the diagnosis of somatic symptom and related disorder is particularly relevant due to the interplay between psychological distress and physical symptoms. The loss of sensation in the hand occurring after the significant emotional event of his father's death may indicate that the individual is experiencing psychological stress manifesting as a physical symptom. This aligns with the characteristics of somatic symptom disorder, where emotional or psychological issues are expressed through physical symptoms for which no medical explanation can be found. This condition can often arise in response to traumatic events or significant stressors, highlighting how mental health conditions can impact physical functioning. The focus of treatment would address both the psychological aspects of grief and the physical symptoms, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to care that considers the mind-body connection. Other diagnoses, while they may have some relevance, do not fully capture the primary issue of physical symptoms linked to emotional distress following a loss. Depression might be relevant due to the emotional state, but it does not directly address the physical manifestation of symptoms. Anxiety disorders could also be considered, yet they typically present with symptoms such as excessive worry or panic rather than bodily sensations like loss of sensation. Similarly, post-traumatic stress disorder can arise after traumatic events but is characterized by specific symptoms such as flashbacks and hyper