What is the best way to elicit a clear objective response from a client?

The best way to elicit a clear objective response from a client is to use a quantitative approach, such as asking them to rate their feelings on a scale of 1-10. This method provides a measurable indication of their current state or satisfaction, making it easier to assess changes over time. The use of a numerical scale allows clients to express their subjective feelings in a uniform manner, giving both the client and instructor a clearer understanding of their experience.

In contrast to this method, asking about a client's favorite exercises may lead to subjective and varied responses that don’t directly reflect their objectives or feelings about their progress. Inquiry into their goals may provide valuable context but often necessitates further clarification and elaboration, which can complicate the assessment. Assuming a client feels good can lead to miscommunication, as it disregards their individual experience and preferences, possibly leading to a disconnect between the instructor’s approach and the client's actual feelings or needs. Thus, using a scale to gather objective feedback is the most effective strategy in this context.