True or false: Goals have measurable indicators or criteria?

True or false: Goals have measurable indicators or criteria?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not specified

Answer: (B)

A goal describes the desired outcome in broad terms, not as an observable, testable state. Measurable indicators are paired with objectives or benchmarks that specify concrete, observable criteria to judge progress toward that goal. For example, to show progress toward improving emotional regulation, objectives might specify that the client identifies three emotions in a session and uses a coping strategy in a majority of distressed moments, with data gathered from therapist notes and self-reports. Because the indicators are tied to these objectives rather than the goal alone, the statement is false. Some frameworks emphasize specificity in goals, but measurable criteria are what make progress verifiable within objectives.

A goal describes the desired outcome in broad terms, not as an observable, testable state. Measurable indicators are paired with objectives or benchmarks that specify concrete, observable criteria to judge progress toward that goal. For example, to show progress toward improving emotional regulation, objectives might specify that the client identifies three emotions in a session and uses a coping strategy in a majority of distressed moments, with data gathered from therapist notes and self-reports. Because the indicators are tied to these objectives rather than the goal alone, the statement is false. Some frameworks emphasize specificity in goals, but measurable criteria are what make progress verifiable within objectives.