Applying Motivational Interviewing Strategies to Facilitate Secure Firearm Storage During Clinical Encounters-Part 2:...

Area of Science:

• Clinical Psychology
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based approach to facilitate behavior change by addressing patient ambivalence.
• Lethal means safety (LMS) counseling faces challenges in encouraging new firearm storage practices.
• Part 1 of this series established the rationale and relational foundation for using MI in LMS counseling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate technical MI strategies for evoking motivation to change firearm storage practices.
• To provide practical tools and language for clinicians in LMS counseling.
• To build upon the foundational concepts of MI in the context of firearm safety.

Main Methods:

• Focus on technical MI strategies, including specific communication techniques.
• Application of the "ask-offer-ask" model.
• Recognition and reflection of "change talk" and utilization of importance rulers.

Main Results:

• Detailed explanation of technical MI strategies to enhance patient motivation.
• Practical examples of how to implement MI techniques in LMS counseling.
• Emphasis on tools that empower patients to commit to behavior change.

Conclusions:

• Technical MI strategies are effective in motivating patients for behavior change in firearm storage.
• The "ask-offer-ask" method, change talk, and importance rulers are key tools for clinicians.
• Integrating MI enhances the efficacy of lethal means safety counseling.