Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Practice Exam

The statement that screening focuses on determining potential problems that need more thorough assessment aimed at diagnosis and treatment accurately captures the essence of the distinction between screening and assessment in social work practice. Screening is typically a preliminary process that helps professionals identify indicators or signs of possible issues within a client or situation. The primary goal of screening is to quickly pinpoint areas that require further investigation, which is where assessment comes into play.

In contrast, assessment involves a more in-depth process that not only evaluates the potential problems identified during screening but also considers various dimensions of the client's situation, including their strengths, resources, and broader context. This enables social workers to formulate a comprehensive understanding of the client’s needs, which is essential in developing effective intervention strategies. Therefore, while screening is crucial for identifying where further exploration is needed, assessment provides the detailed understanding necessary for diagnosis and treatment planning.

The other options address various aspects of difference between screening and assessment but do not encapsulate the core purpose and function of these processes as clearly as the correct choice does. For example, while it’s true that assessment requires skill and expertise, screening can also be conducted by trained professionals. The comparison of structured versus less formal questioning may also vary by context and does not fundamentally define the primary purpose of