Using Checklists in Goal Selection

Purpose: To assist the client in identifying and selecting intervention goals

Discussion: Some clients have difficulty articulating their concerns and identifying their goals for change. In such cases, some type of goal checklist may be useful. Basically, this tool is a list of possible intervention goals which the client can select ones that are relevant to his or her situation. For example, is a goal checklist developed for use in work with parents who had abused their children. A worker familiar with the problems and concerns of a particular client group can easily construct a goal checklist can also be translated into a format for evaluating client perception of the progress is achieved during intervention

A List of Goals for Parents

Explanation: having a clear goal in mind is one important “step by step” in dealing with problems and concerns. Once there is a goal, it is possible to develop a plan in reaching that goal. Below is a list of goals that have been mentioned by parents. Place a checkmark by those that are similar to your goals. The checklist can help you and your social worker formulate a workable plan of action.

• Talk to people about my concerns, problems, and worries
  • Budget my money and keep the bills
  •  Prepare meals that are healthy
  • Clean and take care of my apartment or house
  • Find and make use of services such as daycare, counselling, and legal services
  • Cope and daily pressures and demands of my time
  • Show greater affection toward my child
  • Make friends, mix and feel comfortable with people
  • Learn skills needed to get a job
  • Have a good visits with my child in fostercare
  • Get along with my spouse and partner
  • Learn to recognize when I am at risk of doing something I may regret
  • Find a better and safer living arrangement
  • Talk with my child in ways that make him or her feel secure
  • Discipline and control my child without hitting him or her
  • Talk to and plan with foster parents who are taking care of my child
  • Talk with my social worker and make use of the help he or she can provide
  • Learn to calm myself down when start getting angry or agitated
  • Find friends or a support group that will understand my situation and help me deal with my problems
  • Learn what to expect from children and what is “normal” behavior for a child of a certain age
  • Be more assertive and direct in making my thoughts and feelings known to other people
  • Get along without alcohol or drugs
  • Learn how to deal with conflicts with my parents and relatives
  • Learn how to deal with emergency situations and with times when I feel overwhelmed
  • Learn to cope with strong emotions such as guilt, sadness, fear and anger.