Abstract :
The exact link between the process engaged in during Motivational
Interviewing based interventions, such as Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), and
outcome is yet to be fully understood. Aims: This preliminary study examined Client
Language during MET and outcome. Method: A modified Motivational Interviewing Skills
Code Version 2.0 was used to code 106 audiotaped MET sessions from 28 participants
who received 3–4 sessions of MET within the context of a randomized controlled trial
for mild-moderate alcohol dependence. Client Language was analyzed within sessions
(categorized into Early, Mid, or End Intervals) and across sessions, and in relation
to six month drinking outcome (drinking within/over national drinking guidelines, i.e.
Remitted/Unremitted Drinkers). Results: Unremitted Drinkers uttered a significantly higher
frequency of Sustain Talk, lower Ability Language strength (over all MET and during End
Intervals), and lower Commitment Language strength (during Session 2 and 4, and change
over MET). Conclusions: Notwithstanding limitations, this exploratory study was unique in
examining the strength of Client Language within and across sessions. It produced potentially
valuable findings that warrant further investigation including supporting the clinical benefit of
monitoring Client Language to predict outcome.
