Individual Practice SWES Practice Test

Which criterion is not typically considered a measure of a client's motivation?

1. Willingness to engage in therapy

2. Ego strength

3. Active participation in sessions

4. Setting personal goals for treatment

The correct answer is: Ego strength

Ego strength refers to a person's ability to manage their impulses, maintain a sense of identity, and make rational decisions, often reflecting their resilience and psychological stability. While ego strength is an important characteristic that can influence overall mental health and well-being, it is not a direct measure of motivation. Instead, motivation is typically assessed through observable behaviors and attitudes towards therapy and personal change. Willingness to engage in therapy indicates a client's readiness to participate, showing motivation for improvement. Active participation in sessions demonstrates engagement and investment in the therapeutic process, which are clear indicators of motivation. Setting personal goals for treatment illustrates a client’s desire for change and purpose in therapy, further highlighting their motivation. In contrast, ego strength is more about internal psychological functioning than about the client's motivational dynamics. Therefore, although ego strength is relevant in a broader psychological context, it does not specifically measure a client's motivation for engaging in therapeutic work.