ON THE VALIDITY OF TREATMENT EVALUATION BY CLIENT ASSOCIATES

Abstract

Inherent in any social practice undertaking, be it psychotherapy, social casework, groupwork or community organization, is a process of perpetual evaluation. Facts are assessed in terms of their validity, as measured by a specified criterion, such as their emotional meaning for the patient or his social adjustment. Treatment, be it social casework, a nondirective interview, a relief check, or a group participation, is examined in terms of evidence that it accomplishes the purpose for which it is undertaken. The outcome of a professional relationship is judged by professional criteria or patient expectations of what is "healthy" or "normal." The evaluation function will be found in any treatment process even when there is no well thought out research methodology. Without evaluation there is no rational basis for the existence and continuity of any professional helping process.