What is the purpose of scaling questions in Solution Focused Therapy assessments?

• A. Quantifying subjective experiences on a scale
• B. Measuring physical symptoms only
• C. Diagnosing mental illness
• D. Prescribing medication

Answer: (A)

Scaling questions in Solution Focused Therapy assess subjective experiences by placing them on a clear scale, typically 0 to 10, so clients can rate where they are, where they’d like to be, and what would move them forward. This makes feelings and progress tangible, helps clients articulate shifts in confidence and resources, and provides a concrete reference point for goal setting and tracking change over time. By focusing on what’s working and how small steps add up, the approach keeps attention on solutions and agency rather than just problems.

They aren’t used to measure physical symptoms in isolation, diagnose mental illness, or prescribe medication, which are outside the primary purpose of these assessments.