Motivational Techniques & Coaching Flashcards

What is the main purpose of a summary in motivational interviewing?

Answer: To pull together the patient's change talk and move toward commitment

Summaries gather the patient's reasons for change and help move them toward a plan.

Which statement is an example of commitment language?

Answer: "I will do my calf raises every morning this week."

"I will" statements show commitment and are strong predictors of behavior change.

Patients often skip their home program because it is too long. What is the best coaching adjustment?

Answer: Narrow the program to the 2-3 most important exercises

Fewer, high-value exercises lower the burden and raise completion rates.

Implementation intentions improve adherence by having patients plan in which format?

Answer: "If it is 7 p.m. after dinner, then I will do my wrist extensor stretches."

If-then plans link a specific cue to a behavior, so the behavior happens more automatically.

Which tool best increases home-exercise adherence between Graston visits?

Answer: An exercise log or app that the patient reviews with the clinician at each visit

Self-monitoring with regular accountability check-ins reliably improves adherence.

An athlete is motivated mainly by an external reward (a coach's approval). What is the best long-term coaching strategy?

Answer: Help the athlete link rehab to personal values and goals to build internal motivation

Moving motivation toward internal values leads to more lasting adherence, according to Self-Determination Theory.

Using pain-education coaching, how should a clinician explain mild soreness after a Graston session and loading exercises?

Answer: "Mild, short-lived soreness that settles within about 24 hours is generally acceptable and doesn't mean harm."

Explaining that pain doesn't always equal harm, with clear limits, reduces fear and supports staying active.