In a social work program evaluation, what would an example of an outcome measure be?

An outcome measure refers to the specific indicators used to assess the effectiveness of a program in achieving its goals. In the context of a social work program evaluation, the correct choice involves a tangible result that reflects the impact of the services provided.

The option mentioning "reduction in reported issues of clients" fits this definition perfectly. It signifies a direct change or improvement in the clients’ situation as a result of the intervention, illustrating the program's effectiveness in enhancing overall client well-being and addressing specific issues. This outcome measure can be quantified and compared over time to evaluate progress and success, making it a critical component of program evaluation.

In contrast, the other options reflect different aspects of understanding a program's functioning but do not serve as direct measures of outcomes. Client engagement levels might indicate participation and involvement but do not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of the program itself. Training sessions conducted are more about program implementation rather than client outcomes, and documentation quality pertains to the fidelity and thoroughness of record-keeping rather than measuring client results. Thus, focusing on a measurable change like the reduction in reported issues provides a clearer picture of program outcomes and their impact on clients.