Behavior Change & Client Communication Flashcards

Which type of feedback is MOST effective for sustaining long-term exercise adherence?

Answer: Informational feedback combined with positive reinforcement

Combining informational feedback (what and why) with positive reinforcement supports motivation and helps clients track meaningful progress.

A client who has maintained a regular exercise routine for eight months is BEST classified in which TTM stage?

Answer: Maintenance

The Maintenance stage begins after six months of sustained behavior change, during which individuals work to prevent relapse.

Which approach BEST illustrates the use of stimulus control as a behavior change strategy?

Answer: Laying out workout clothes the night before to cue exercise

Stimulus control involves modifying environmental cues to make healthy behavior more likely, such as preparing equipment in advance.

When should an exercise physiologist use an open-ended question during a counseling session?

Answer: To invite the client to elaborate on their thoughts, feelings, or experiences

Open-ended questions cannot be answered with 'yes' or 'no,' which encourages clients to share richer information about their perspectives.

A client states they will exercise 'when they have time.' According to the principles of behavior change, this indicates a lack of:

Answer: Implementation intention

Implementation intentions specify the when, where, and how of a behavior, bridging the gap between intention and action.

Which technique involves helping a client identify the discrepancy between their current behavior and their broader personal values or life goals?

Answer: Developing discrepancy

Developing discrepancy is a motivational interviewing strategy that highlights the gap between current behavior and what the client values most.

A client experiences a two-week lapse in exercise due to illness. According to relapse prevention theory, the BEST response is to:

Answer: Help the client distinguish a lapse from a full relapse and create a plan

Relapse prevention theory emphasizes distinguishing a temporary lapse from a full relapse and developing coping strategies to resume behavior.