Transtheoretical Model of Change and Motivational Interviewing

Running head: TRANSTHEORETICAL MODEL OF CHANGE 1
Nursing – Transtheoretical Model of Change and Motivational Interviewing
Student’s Name
Institutional Affiliation

TRANSTHEORETICAL MODEL OF CHANGE 2
Nursing – Transtheoretical Model of Change and Motivational Interviewing
Introduction
The problem of weight gain and lack of proper exercise is among the major health
concern across the country. The use of lifestyle interventions has been linked to positive
outcomes for those facing this issue. In fact, changing the diet and enhancing physical activity
are the key interventions recommended to inspire a change in behavior. Simmonds et al. (2016)
argued that there is a five-fold increase in the rate of obesity among adults and adolescents,
which implies that there is a corresponding increase in cases related to excessive weight gain.
Harry is just one example of several patients who are regularly diagnosed with complications
emanating from increased weight gain. It is possible to assist such patients using the
transtheoretical model of change and motivational interviewing (Desai, 2019). This paper
provides an overview of how to support Harry through the five stages of change cycle based on
transtheoretical model of change and motivational interviewing.
How to Support Harry through the Stages of Change Cycle
Precontemplation
A significant number of patients go through a pre-contemplation stage where they are not
willing or considering to start the journey of a behavioral change process. The reason for the lack
of will is usually emanating from their inability to understand or conceptualize the value and
benefits that will come with the change. Harry states that he is always around food and he loves
it, which has been the reason why he has remained overweight for many years. The statement
that Harry made is a clear indicator of being sedentary and he is not yet familiar with the benefits
that will come with a change in his eating behavior. It is normal for patients to fail to understand

TRANSTHEORETICAL MODEL OF CHANGE 3
and figure out the need for a change in lifestyle or behavior (DiClemente, 2015). The first thing
to consider at this level is awareness and education. Already the doctor has pointed out to him
that his weight is significantly impacting his health, which implies that his recovery depends on
his willingness to check on his weight. Therefore, Harry needs a therapeutic session focusing on
the benefits of controlling his diet and engaging in physical activity to reduce his weight. Based
on clinical evidence motivational interviewing, the conversation should both be encouraging and
sympathetic (Resnicow et al., 2016). Such considerations will enable Harry to develop the desire
to make a positive lifestyle behavioral change.
Contemplation
Successful educational sessions with the patient could lead to a change in perception and
the client could start considering the need to embrace the change. Harry has received a
confirmation from the doctor regarding the effect of his weight on his wellbeing and indeed,
clinical evidence ascertains the implication of excess weight on one’s health (Boff et al., 2016;
Daly et al., 2016). Already he is scheduled for a hip replacement. During the contemplation
stage, Harry will start to think about how a change could lead to positive results by comparing
the possible outcomes to the present situation. At this moment, Harry needs encouragement but
this time, it is not about education. That is, the focus of the motivation is to clearly present to him
the two sides of the scenario: his life without the change and during as well as after a change in
eating and physical activity behavior. During the contemplation stage, the patient needs a
comprehensive picture of what will happen if he/she accepts to change. At this level, Harry
needs to understand clearly that his situation is going to exacerbate with his current weight (Boff
et al., 2016; Daly et al., 2016). As a caregiver, I will continue to encourage Harry but at the same
time emphasize on essence of accepting to undertake the proposed interventions.