Using Motivational Activities to Facilitate Treatment Involvement and Reduce Risk

Abstract

The current study examined the effectiveness of motivational modules the authors designed to enhance motivation and confidence for treatment. One hundred and forty-six (146) probationers either received treatment as usual (“standard treatment”) or standard treatment enhanced with the motivational modules. The results indicate that probationers who received the motivational activities were more motivated to be involved in treatment and reduce risky behaviors (e.g., drinking, drug use, risky sex) toward the end of the residential phase of treatment. Methods to improve the intervention, including the development of 10 to 15 minute long micromodules to serve as booster sessions, are discussed.

Keywords:

• downward spiral
• motivation and confidence
• probationers
• RAFTing
• Under Construction