The S.C.O.R.E. Model Presentation and Questions
Symptoms:
These are the observable signs or manifestations of a problem or issue. Symptoms can be physical, emotional, behavioral, or cognitive. Identifying symptoms is the first step in understanding what the problem entails.
Useful Questions:
- What’s not working?
- What do you want to change?
- How long have you been experiencing these symptoms?
- Do the symptoms occur in specific situations or contexts?
- Have you noticed any patterns or triggers associated with the symptoms?
Causes:
This refers to the underlying factors or reasons behind the symptoms. Causes can be diverse and may include individual factors (such as personality traits or past experiences), environmental factors (such as stressors or societal influences), or systemic factors (such as organizational structures or cultural norms). Identifying causes helps in understanding the root of the problem.
Useful Questions:
- What are the underlying causes?
- What’s stopping you from fixing this?
- Who or what is benefiting from not fixing this?
- How do you think these causes developed?
- Have there been any significant changes or events that might have contributed to these causes?
Outcomes:
These are the anticipated or actual results or consequences of the problem or issue. Outcomes can be short-term or long-term and may vary depending on how the problem is addressed. Understanding potential outcomes helps in assessing the impact of the problem on individuals or systems.
Useful Questions:
- What do you want instead of the problem?
- Where do you want to get to?
- What positive changes do you hope to see?
- How will achieving these outcomes improve your life?
- Are there any potential negative outcomes to consider?
Resources:
These are the assets, supports, or interventions available to address the problem or mitigate its effects. Resources can include personal strengths, social support networks, professional interventions, community services, or technological tools. Identifying available resources is crucial for developing effective strategies for addressing the problem.
Useful Questions:
- What skills/money/equipment/contacts do you have that will help you to solve your problem?
- Have you faced a problem like this before? How did you solve it?
- What professional or community services are available to assist you?
- Are there any support networks or individuals you can turn to for help?
- Have you considered seeking additional training or education to address the problem?
Effects:
These are the broader impacts or ripple effects of the problem on individuals, relationships, organizations, or communities. Effects can be direct or indirect and may extend beyond the immediate context of the problem. Understanding effects helps in evaluating the overall significance and implications of the problem.
Useful Questions:
- What will it do for you to attain your goal?
- How will reaching your outcome change things?
- What will you learn from it?
- Who else will be affected by these changes?
- Are there any potential unintended consequences to consider?
By systematically examining symptoms, causes, outcomes, resources, and effects, the S.C.O.R.E. Model provides a structured approach for understanding and addressing complex issues, facilitating problem-solving, and promoting positive outcomes.
