Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

In a community mental health center, parents may enable a child's antisocial behavior by doing which of the following?

1. Setting strict rules

2. Offering excessive praise

3. Not setting limits or having clear expectations

4. Involving other family members

The correct answer is: Not setting limits or having clear expectations

In a community mental health center context, enabling a child's antisocial behavior is often linked to a lack of structure and clear boundaries. When parents do not set limits or have clear expectations, it creates an environment where the child may feel free to misbehave without facing the consequences of their actions. This lack of guidance can lead to the reinforcement of negative behaviors, as the child learns that they can act out without ramifications. By not establishing clear rules or expectations, parents unintentionally signal that such behaviors are acceptable, which can further exacerbate the antisocial tendencies in the child. The importance of boundaries in child development is well-documented, as they help children understand the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behaviors, promoting a sense of security and responsibility. In contrast, setting strict rules may provide structure not typically associated with enabling. While excessive praise can have its drawbacks, it does not directly relate to the enabling of antisocial behavior like the absence of limits does. Involving other family members can help address behavior but is not inherently enabling if it promotes accountability and support.