Explain the rationale for contracts

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Contracting is the final discrete activity of Phase I of the helping process; it identifies the work to be accomplished through the change-oriented strategies by which goals will be attained. Key ingredients summarize the purpose and focus of your work with clients as well as ensure mutual accountability. In some practice settings, the contract or agreement clarifies the role of the client and social worker as well as establishes the conditions under which assistance is provided.
Developing a contract or service agreement with clients may require an explanation of the purpose and rationale for the contract. Explanations may be particularly important for clients who are hesitant to sign a document without fully understanding its purpose. Involuntary clients may be suspicious or distrustful, perceiving the contract as further infringing on their freedom or that they are committing to a change with which they disagree. For minors, the concept of a contract may be a totally alien one regardless of their age and developmental stage. For this reason, you might frame the explanation as an agreement that describes expectations. In settings in which a minor's choice of whether to work with you is limited, specifying the required change and your role in supporting the minor to achieve goals, as well as clarifying rewards and benefits, can be especially important.