In the Hierarchy of Goals, which level represents the overarching long-term goal of participation?

• A. Subordinate goals
• B. Intermediate goals
• C. Superordinate goals
• D. Short-term goals

Answer: (C)

The highest level in the Hierarchy of Goals represents the broad, long-term aim that guides all other goals. This top level is the superordinate goals, which define the overall purpose—such as the overarching aim of participation in meaningful life activities. All the more specific, day-to-day targets are organized to support this long-term outcome. Short-term goals are immediate actions, intermediate goals are mid-range milestones, and subordinate goals are the specific tasks that feed into the higher levels. Understanding it this way shows why the overarching aim of participation sits at the top: it shapes and directs every smaller goal along the way.