Final answer:
The initial objective is to help the client take responsibility for his behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The initial objective for helping the client who insists that his wife's behavior is the reason he drinks is to help him take responsibility for his behavior.
This means helping him recognize that he is ultimately responsible for his decision to consume alcohol, regardless of external factors.
By empowering him to take ownership of his choices and behavior, he can gain control over his drinking and seek appropriate support or treatment if necessary.