Using the multi-theory model of health behavior change to identify correlates of change in substance use behavior in a mental health clinic-based sample

ABSTRACT

Background: Substance use is a chronic disorder that requires lifelong multimodal management. This study utilized the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of Health Behavior Change to identify correlates of change in substance use behavior.

Methods: Data were collected, using a cross-sectional design, from 93 participants who completed treatment at a substance use treatment facility. Participants completed a 40-item, newly developed, self-administered questionnaire, grounded on relevant substance use, treatment, and health-related behavior. Cronbach’s alpha of all subscales were over 0.70 and deemed acceptable.

Results: The majority of the participants were Caucasian (72.7%). Males comprised 60% of the sample. A stepwise multiple regression predicting initiation and sustenance of intentional substance use cessation showed a total of 34.2% of the variance. The initiation for the intentional substance use cessation was accounted for by participatory dialogue, advantages minus disadvantages (p = .001) and behavioral confidence (p = < 0.001). The sustenance for intentional substance use cessation was accounted for a total of 33% of the variance by practice for change (p = .004) and changes in the social environment (p = < 0.003).

Conclusions: The MTM could be a useful model for predicting substance use behavior change. Clinicians and patients can gain insight and discuss behavioral changes necessary for recovery.

KEYWORDS:

• Substance use
• cessation
• multi-theory model
• behavior
• correlates

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, EC, upon reasonable request ([email protected]).