Which statement best describes evidence-based practice in human services?

• A. Using client intuition to guide decisions
• B. Relying solely on tradition
• C. Integrating the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and client values
• D. Focusing only on policy mandates

Answer: (C)

Evidence-based practice in human services means making decisions by integrating the best available research evidence with your professional training and the client’s values and circumstances. This approach ensures interventions are supported by solid data while also fitting real-world practice and honoring what the client wants. Relying solely on intuition ignores systematic evidence; relying only on tradition ignores current research; focusing only on policy mandates neglects client needs and the practical effectiveness of interventions. By combining research evidence, clinical expertise, and client values, practitioners select approaches that are both evidence-informed and person-centered.