ASWB LCSW Social Work Clinical Practice Exam

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory that outlines a tiered model of human motivation and development. The framework presents a model in which human needs are organized in a hierarchy, starting from basic physiological needs at the bottom, ascending through safety, love and belonging, esteem, and culminating in self-actualization at the top.

By applying this hierarchy to clinical practice, social workers can prioritize issues and problems based on the fulfilling of these needs. For instance, if a client is struggling with basic physiological needs—like food and shelter—those issues take precedence over higher-level problems like self-esteem or self-actualization. This prioritization is critical in guiding intervention strategies and ensuring that fundamental needs are met before addressing more complex psychological or emotional issues.

In this context, focusing on problems or issues is essential for creating an effective treatment plan, as it delineates which areas require immediate attention and intervention according to their importance in the client's overall well-being and development.