Certified Case Manager Practice Test

What is the focus of the Exploration phase in case management?

1. Determine a permanent placement for the child

2. Identify criminal activity of the parents

3. Reach agreement with parents about child safety and concerns

4. Conduct a psychological evaluation of the child

The correct answer is: Reach agreement with parents about child safety and concerns

The focus of the Exploration phase in case management is centered on reaching an agreement with parents about child safety and concerns. This phase is essential as it involves open dialogue with the parents to identify their perspectives on the situation and any potential risks. Establishing this agreement is crucial for building trust and collaboration between the case manager and the family. During this phase, the case manager works to understand the family's dynamics and ascertain the concerns that may affect the child's safety, thus facilitating a shared understanding of the issues at hand. The goal is to collaborate on developing a plan that prioritizes the child's welfare while also considering the family's input and circumstances. Other options, while related to the broader scope of child welfare and case management, do not align with the specific goals of the Exploration phase. For instance, determining a permanent placement for the child is typically a later stage in the process, as is the consideration of psychological evaluations and investigations into criminal activity of the parents. These actions may be necessary components of the overall case management process but fall outside the focus of the Exploration phase where communication and agreement are prioritized.