Motivational Interviewing & Stages of Change Flashcards

A participant uses again after eight months of recovery. How does the Transtheoretical Model view this?

Answer: A common event in which the person cycles back to an earlier stage

The TTM sees relapse as common and recycling through the stages as part of lasting change.

A person in the Preparation stage typically:

Answer: Intends to act within the next 30 days and has taken some small steps

Preparation combines intent to act within about 30 days with initial small steps.

Someone says, "I know my drinking is a problem and I'll probably deal with it sometime this year." Which stage fits best?

Answer: Contemplation

Contemplation means recognizing the problem and intending to change within about six months, without a concrete plan.

In the TTM, the Action stage is defined as having modified behavior for:

Answer: Less than six months

Action covers the first six months of overt behavior change, and maintenance follows.

What is the most helpful peer approach with someone in Precontemplation?

Answer: Build rapport and, with permission, share information to raise awareness

Precontemplators respond best to non-judgmental engagement and consciousness-raising rather than pressure or action plans.

Removing all alcohol from the home and avoiding bars is an example of which TTM process of change?

Answer: Stimulus control

Stimulus control removes cues for the old behavior and adds prompts for healthier choices.

Which processes of change are emphasized most in the Action and Maintenance stages?

Answer: Behavioral processes such as counterconditioning and helping relationships

Later stages rely more on behavioral processes, while earlier stages rely more on experiential ones.