CHC Behavior Change & Motivational Interviewing 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which stage of change involves a person planning to take action within the next 30 days?
- Contemplation
- Action
- Preparation (Correct answer)
- Maintenance
Correct answer: Preparation
In the Transtheoretical Model of Change, the Preparation stage is characterized by individuals intending to take action in the immediate future, typically within the next month. They have usually taken some small steps towards change and are actively planning their strategy. This stage signifies a commitment to change and readiness to implement new behaviors.
Question 2: What is the primary goal of motivational interviewing?
- Diagnose behavioral disorders
- Convince the client to change
- Elicit client’s own motivation for change (Correct answer)
- Critique unhealthy behaviors
Correct answer: Elicit client’s own motivation for change
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered counseling style designed to help people explore and resolve ambivalence about behavior change. Its primary goal is to elicit and strengthen the client's intrinsic motivation for change, rather than imposing external pressure or advice. This approach empowers clients to discover their own reasons and methods for making healthy choices.
Question 3: Which technique reflects the client’s statement to show understanding and build trust?
- Closed questioning
- Goal setting
- Reflective listening (Correct answer)
- Educational lectures
Correct answer: Reflective listening
Reflective listening is a core skill in coaching and motivational interviewing where the coach paraphrases or repeats what the client has said, often adding a nuance or interpretation. This technique demonstrates empathy, ensures understanding, and encourages the client to elaborate, building trust and rapport. It helps clients feel heard and understood, fostering a safe space for exploration.
Question 4: In the Transtheoretical Model, what defines the ‘maintenance’ stage?
- Considering change in the next 6 months
- Engaging in new behavior for less than 1 month
- Returning to old habits
- Sustaining change for over 6 months (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Sustaining change for over 6 months
In the Transtheoretical Model of Change, the Maintenance stage is reached when an individual has successfully sustained their new, healthy behavior for at least six months. The focus in this stage is on preventing relapse and solidifying the new lifestyle changes. It requires ongoing commitment and strategies to integrate the behavior into daily life permanently.
Question 5: What approach helps minimize client resistance during coaching sessions?
- Giving unsolicited advice
- Using affirmations (Correct answer)
- Challenging beliefs directly
- Focusing on weaknesses
Correct answer: Using affirmations
Using affirmations involves recognizing and acknowledging the client's strengths, efforts, and positive qualities. This approach helps build self-efficacy, fosters a positive coaching relationship, and reduces resistance by validating the client's experiences and capabilities. Affirmations empower clients and encourage them to continue their efforts towards change.
Question 6: Which acronym summarizes the core skills of motivational interviewing?
- RACE
- SMART
- OARS (Correct answer)
- STOP
Correct answer: OARS
OARS is an acronym representing the four core communication skills used in Motivational Interviewing: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, and Summaries. These skills work together to facilitate client exploration, build rapport, and evoke change talk. Mastering OARS allows coaches to guide clients effectively through their change journey.
CHC Behavior Change & Motivational Interviewing 1
Which stage of change involves a person planning to take action within the next 30 days?