A Scoping Review of Solution-Focused Measures

Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is a resource-based model that emphasizes solution-building over problem-solving. This scoping review identified solution-focused (SF) measurement tools, examined their psychometric properties, and explored the conceptualization of a core SFBT construct, namely solution-building. Using the PRISMA guidelines, we searched eight databases, supplemented with citation searching. Eligible studies included the development or validation of SF measures. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, yielding 11 instruments (seven client-focused and four provider-focused). Measures were applied across diverse disciplines and cultural contexts. The Solution-Building Inventory and Solution-Focused Inventory had the most psychometric evidence. Mapping instruments to SFBT constructs revealed that "strengths and resources" and "hope and positive emotions" were most assessed, while "goal setting" and "using the client's language" were least represented. Only three measures demonstrated sensitivity to client change over time. Recommendations for future research and practice are discussed.