Why is the form of sonnet used rather then a different form such as dramatic monologue, ballad etc.

Among all the forms of lyrical poetry, the sonnet happens
to be the most disciplined and condensed. It is a poetic form consisting of fourteen
lines, and having a precise structure with a more or less specific kind of rhyme-scheme.
So if a poet prefers emotional as well as artistic restraint, the sonnet form might be
his/her natural choice. The dramatic monologue is a sort of dramatic solo speech spoken
by a persona at a moment of some intense emotional/psychological crisis, and addressed
to a silent listener. This form is therefore very situation-specific, and shall not suit
all occasions/moods. The ballad is also a very typical poetic form that usually tells a
story, and often tends to be rather longish.

Hope you can
understand why the sonnet is more universal and more artistically challenging than
either the dramatic monologue or the ballad.