Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

When evaluating a program aimed at preventing youth involvement in the juvenile justice system, what should the social worker do first?

1. A. Set goals and objectives for treatment

2. B. Determine who the target population is

3. C. Share outcome results and recommendations

4. D. Look at measures used to assess progress towards goals

The correct answer is: D. Look at measures used to assess progress towards goals

In the context of evaluating a program aimed at preventing youth involvement in the juvenile justice system, the first step a social worker should take is to determine who the target population is. Identifying the target population is crucial because it informs all subsequent actions and decisions regarding the program. Knowing the specific group of young people the program intends to serve allows for tailored interventions that directly address their unique needs and circumstances. Understanding the demographics, challenges, and specific areas of vulnerability within the target population helps in designing effective strategies and interventions. It sets the foundation for developing relevant goals and objectives that will be applicable to the individuals served by the program. Additionally, insight into the target population aids in selecting appropriate measures for assessing the program's effectiveness, ensuring that evaluations are accurate and meaningful. Once the target population is clearly defined, a social worker can then proceed to set goals and objectives and determine the measures needed to assess progress, ultimately leading to sharing the outcomes and recommendations. Thus, identifying the target population is an essential first step in the evaluation process.