What aspect of a client should be evaluated to predict potential risks to themselves or others?

Evaluating environmental factors is crucial in predicting potential risks to a client and those around them. Environmental factors encompass various elements, including the client's living situation, community dynamics, availability of support systems, and exposure to stressors, such as violence or substance abuse in their surroundings. These factors can significantly influence an individual's mental health and behavior, increasing the likelihood of risky actions or situations.

Understanding a client's environment helps social workers identify stressors that may lead to crises, such as unstable housing or lack of resources, which can impact a person's mental state. For instance, a client living in a violent neighborhood may face increased anxiety and a higher likelihood of engaging in self-destructive behaviors, influencing their risk assessment.

By focusing on environmental factors, practitioners can better understand the context of a client's life and develop comprehensive and effective intervention plans to address these risks.