Which option best describes the principle of goal setting with clients?

• A. Goals should be client-driven.
• B. Goals should reflect the worker's agenda.
• C. Goals should align with agency policy.
• D. Goals should minimize client input.

Answer: (A)

Client-driven goals place the client’s priorities, values, and circumstances at the center of planning. In this approach, the social worker partners with the client to explore what they want to achieve, why it matters to them, and what steps are realistic in their life context. This collaboration supports self-determination, increases motivation, and makes the plan meaningful and workable for the client. The worker’s role is to facilitate, clarify options, assess feasibility, and help arrange supports, but the client ultimately directs what gets targeted and how progress is defined. Agency policies and professional guidelines guide how the plan is carried out, but they don’t determine the client’s goals themselves. Minimizing client input would undermine empowerment and engagement. For example, if a client prioritizes stable housing, the team should focus on housing-related goals and steps, rather than shifting emphasis to something the worker thinks is more important.