ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which response represents a factor that can lead clients to place the responsibility of program success on the health coach?

1. Lack of rapport

2. Decreased self-efficacy

3. Past experience

4. Unclear expectations

The correct answer is: Unclear expectations

A client placing responsibility for program success on the health coach is often linked to unclear expectations. When clients do not fully understand what is expected from them and what roles both they and their coach play in the journey, they may feel unsure or uninvolved in the process. This lack of clarity can lead clients to assume that their success hinges solely on the coach’s actions and guidance, rather than viewing it as a collaborative effort. Setting clear, mutual expectations at the start of a coaching relationship helps clients recognize their own roles and responsibilities, empowering them to take ownership of their progress. When they understand what they are accountable for, they are less likely to project all responsibility onto the coach. In contrast, while factors like decreased self-efficacy, past experience, and lack of rapport can influence a client’s engagement and motivation, they do not directly cause clients to project responsibility for success entirely onto the coach as unclear expectations do.