Behavioral Counseling Techniques Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Behavioral Counseling Techniques flashcards as text
A patient states, "I already know the surgery will fix everything, so I don't need to change how I eat." Which stage of change does this best reflect regarding behavioral modification?
Answer: Precontemplation
Precontemplation is marked by no intention to change behavior, often because the person does not see the behavior as a problem.
During a session, a patient says, "Maybe I could try packing lunch instead of eating fast food." Which motivational interviewing response best reinforces this change talk?
Answer: "Tell me more about how packing lunch might work for you."
Elaborating on change talk with open questions strengthens the patient's own motivation and commitment.
Which cognitive distortion is a patient displaying when they say, "I ate one cookie, so my whole diet is ruined and I might as well binge"?
Answer: All-or-nothing thinking
All-or-nothing (dichotomous) thinking frames a small lapse as total failure, often triggering the abstinence violation effect.
In relapse prevention counseling, a single episode of overeating that does not return the patient to old habits is best described as a:
Answer: Lapse
A lapse is a brief, isolated slip, whereas a relapse is a full return to previous behavior patterns.
A counselor teaching a patient to eat slowly, put the fork down between bites, and notice fullness cues is using which approach?
Answer: Mindful eating training
Mindful eating trains nonjudgmental attention to hunger, satiety, and the eating experience to reduce overeating.
Which goal best meets SMART criteria for a bariatric counseling patient?
Answer: "Walk 20 minutes after dinner, five days a week, for the next month"
It is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, unlike the vague alternatives.
A patient becomes defensive when the counselor pushes for faster dietary changes. According to motivational interviewing, the counselor should:
Answer: Roll with resistance and avoid direct argumentation
Rolling with resistance avoids power struggles and keeps the patient engaged in exploring change on their own terms.