Which statement best captures the effect of feedback on clients when it aligns with self-concept?

• A. They are more likely to accept the feedback.
• B. They are more likely to reject the feedback.
• C. They are indifferent to feedback.
• D. They only respond when the feedback comes from a supervisor.

Answer: (A)

When feedback aligns with how a client sees themselves, it tends to feel accurate and validating. People strive for internal consistency, so feedback that matches their self-concept reinforces their identity and competence. This reduces defensiveness and makes them more open to considering the information, leading to greater acceptance. The other patterns—rejecting feedback, being indifferent, or only responding to supervisor-derived input—don’t fit the typical response to self-concept–congruent feedback. Alignment signals relevance and trustworthiness, which increases receptivity.