motivation-capacity-opportunity theory

The assessment model used by social workers to predict the likelihood that a client will make effective use of the help offered. Charlotte Towle (1896-1966) first formulated the triad, and social work researchers Lillian Ripple (1911-1993), Ernestina Alexander, and Bernice W. Polemis studied its relevance. Their findings concluded that when clients have adequate motivation and the capacity to partake of services provided in an appropriate manner, they will make use of the services, unless there are restrictive or unmodifiable forces outside the agency or influences on the client.