Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

If a parent is distressed after finding her five-year-old exploring another child’s body, how should a social worker respond?

1. Reassure the parent that this is normal for children this age

2. Advise the parent to monitor future behavior

3. Recommend professional counseling for both children

4. Encourage the parent to establish strict boundaries

The correct answer is: Reassure the parent that this is normal for children this age

Reassuring the parent that a child's exploration of another child's body is a normal behavior at that developmental stage is vital for several reasons. At around five years old, children are naturally curious about their bodies and those of others. This curiosity is often a part of their learning process about sexuality, boundaries, and interpersonal relationships. Normalizing this behavior may help reduce the parent's distress and allow for a more open conversation between the parent and child about body boundaries, consent, and healthy relationships. It is important for the social worker to create a supportive environment where the parent feels comfortable discussing their concerns and understanding the context of the behavior. This reassurance can be instrumental in helping the parent navigate this sensitive situation without excessive alarm or shame, fostering a healthier dynamic for discussing similar issues in the future. In contrast, other responses may not address the developmental appropriateness of the behavior or could create unnecessary anxiety or stigma around normal childhood exploration. Encouraging strict boundaries without a constructive discussion may lead to confusion or fear for both the parent and child, while suggesting professional counseling could be premature unless there are indications of harmful behavior or distress. Monitoring future behavior, while potentially prudent, does not validate the child's actions in the context of their development, which is a crucial aspect of helping