Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

If a client discharges emotional tension through disruptive behavior, this is known as:

1. Act-in.

2. Act-out.

3. Decompensate.

4. Sublimate.

The correct answer is: Act-out.

When a client channels their emotional tension into disruptive behaviors, this is referred to as "acting out." This concept is rooted in psychodynamic theory, where it is understood that some individuals may express emotional difficulties through external behaviors rather than internalizing their feelings. Acting out serves as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to release pent-up feelings related to anxiety, anger, or frustration in a more visible manner. This behavior can manifest in various forms, including aggression, impulsive actions, or even self-destructive trends. It's a significant concept in clinical practice, highlighting the importance of recognizing these behaviors as expressions of underlying emotional distress rather than merely problematic actions. By understanding that a client is acting out, practitioners can work more effectively to address the root causes of these behaviors and guide clients toward healthier coping strategies. The other concepts mentioned relate to different psychological processes. For example, to "act-in" refers to the internalization of feelings, where individuals manage their emotional turmoil within themselves, leading to withdrawal or depression. "Decompensate" describes a decline in function, usually when coping mechanisms fail, resulting in increased anxiety or other psychological symptoms. "Sublimation" is a mature defense mechanism where negative or socially unacceptable impulses are transformed into positive, socially acceptable actions