What is the aim of formative evaluation in the context of therapy?

The aim of formative evaluation in the context of therapy is to observe progress of change. Formative evaluation focuses on ongoing assessments that help therapists and clients gauge the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions as they occur. This process provides valuable feedback that can inform adjustments to therapy, allowing for a more tailored approach to meet the client's needs.

In therapeutic settings, monitoring progress is crucial for understanding how well clients are responding to treatment and identifying areas that may require different strategies or approaches. This ongoing evaluation not only supports client engagement but also enhances the overall effectiveness of the therapeutic process.

While assigning a final grade or assessing theoretical knowledge may be relevant in educational settings, they do not capture the essence of monitoring a client's therapeutic journey. Preparing for termination is typically a later-stage consideration that addresses the conclusion of therapy, rather than the continuous assessment of progress that formative evaluation seeks to facilitate.