CDN Nutrition Counseling & Behavioral Change Flashcards

In motivational interviewing (MI), which technique involves reflecting back what a client has said to encourage deeper exploration?

Answer: Reflective listening

Reflective listening involves paraphrasing or mirroring the client's statements to demonstrate empathy and promote self-exploration.

According to the Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change), a patient who acknowledges a dietary problem but is not planning to change within the next 30 days is in which stage?

Answer: Contemplation

Contemplation is characterized by awareness of the problem and ambivalence about change, without commitment to action within 30 days.

Which counseling approach is most evidence-based for changing dietary behaviors in patients with chronic disease?

Answer: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) adapted for nutrition

CBT for nutrition addresses thought patterns, beliefs, and behaviors that influence food choices, with strong evidence in chronic disease management.

A dietitian sets a SMART goal with a client. Which example best illustrates a SMART nutrition goal?

Answer: 'Replace one sugary beverage with water 5 days per week for the next month'

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — replacing one sugary drink with water 5 days/week for a month meets all criteria.

Which communication style is most likely to increase a patient's resistance to dietary change?

Answer: Providing unsolicited advice in a directive tone

Unsolicited directive advice creates reactance (psychological resistance), making patients less likely to engage with recommended changes.

What does the term 'change talk' refer to in motivational interviewing?

Answer: The client's own statements about desire, ability, reasons, or commitment to change

Change talk refers to client statements that favor change, including desire, ability, reasons, need, and commitment — a key predictor of behavior change outcomes.