However, for individuals who must deal with major barriers, many of the above realistically are only good indicators of progress after a lengthy period of multifaceted, comprehensive, integrated intervention. Efforts to answer the following questions lead to an appreciation of the many problems and issues. Endless arguments arise over indicators when they are discussed in highly specific and concrete terms. Additional dilemmas arise because the various involved parties often have different perspectives regarding what problems should be addressed. Although some measures are better than others and some are designated the best that exist, best should not be equated with good or good enough.
All evaluation has the potential to produce major negative consequences.
The ethical obligation is to maximize benefits and minimize costs to clients. Putting aside the financial costs, it is clear that use of any formal measure can increase a client's distress and produce psychological reactance. It is likely that the high dropout rate among clients, in part, is a reaction to too much formal assessment during the first encounters with an intervener. Measures Relevant for Accountability to Specific Youngsters and Families Below are listed a sample of promising instruments. It is essential that interveners review and choose measures that minimize negative impact on clients.