Which tool is often used to assist in understanding a client’s motivation for change?

The Stage of Change model is particularly effective in understanding a client’s motivation for change because it outlines the various phases individuals typically navigate when undergoing behavioral changes. Developed by Prochaska and DiClemente, this model provides a framework that categorizes the process of change into five distinct stages: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance.

By recognizing which stage a client is in, social workers can tailor their interventions to meet the client where they are in the change process. For instance, a client in the precontemplation stage may not yet recognize the need for change, while someone in the action stage is actively implementing changes in their life. This approach allows practitioners to assess motivation accurately and develop appropriate strategies to encourage progression through the stages.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of client management and skill development. SMART Goals are primarily a tool for goal-setting and do not specifically address the nuances of motivational change. The Ten-Session Model is more about structuring therapeutic interventions rather than understanding motivation. Similarly, the Life Skills Inventory is focused on assessing and enhancing a client’s skills rather than directly evaluating their motivation for change. Thus, the Stage of Change model stands out as a critical tool for understanding client