In the context of counseling, what does high but reasonable expectations mean?

High but reasonable expectations in counseling emphasize creating targets that are ambitious enough to promote growth while still being achievable for students. When counselors set expectations that challenge students without being out of reach, they foster a supportive environment conducive to development. This approach allows students to stretch their abilities and learn resilient coping strategies through striving toward these goals.

By establishing attainable goals, counselors empower students to experience success in their efforts, boosting their self-efficacy and motivation. When students encounter meaningful challenges that are within their grasp, they are likely to engage more fully, embrace learning opportunities, and develop a stronger sense of accomplishment.

The other options reflect approaches that either set the bar too high or too low for students, lack the necessary support, or disengage students from the process of striving for achievement. Hence, focusing on high yet reasonable expectations balances challenge with support, which is essential in a counseling context.