Teaching motivational interviewing: using role play is as effective as using simulated patients

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Motivational interviewing (MI) is an effective intervention, yet optimal training methods remain under-researched.
• Effective acquisition of MI communication skills through practice and rehearsal requires further investigation into the most beneficial approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of simulated patient (SP) versus peer-trainee practice sessions for developing motivational interviewing skills.
• To assess the impact of different practice modalities on healthcare professionals' MI competence and their perception of the training.

Main Methods:

• Health care professionals attended a 2-day MI workshop and were randomized to practice with either an SP or a fellow trainee.
• Competence was measured using the Behaviour Change Counselling Index (pre- and post-training).
• Participants rated practice sessions on affect and clinical applicability.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in MI skill levels was observed between the SP and peer-trainee practice groups post-training.
• Participant ratings of affect and perceived applicability of practice sessions did not differ significantly between the groups.
• Little association was found between participants' feelings about practice sessions and their acquired skill levels.

Conclusions:

• Training healthcare professionals in MI using a 2-day workshop results in comparable competence regardless of whether practice occurs with simulated patients or fellow trainees.
• The choice of practice partner (SP vs. peer) does not appear to influence the effectiveness of MI skills acquisition in this training context.