Dec 05, 2025  
BC3 Academic Catalog: 2025-2026 
    
BC3 Academic Catalog: 2025-2026

SOCW 216 - Stages of Change

3 Credits: (3 lecture)

Course Description
The course introduces students to the Transtheoretical Model of addiction, which outlines the stages of change individuals go through when modifying behavior.  Students will learn how to apply Motivational Interviewing techniques to support clients at each stage of the change process.  Students will also develop essential communication skills to engage clients effectively and facilitate meaningful behavioral change, emphasizing the role of the treatment provider in the change process.

Prerequisite SOCW 105


Text
DiClemente, C.C. (2018).  Addiction and change:  How addictions develop and addicted people recover.  (2nd ed.).  New York, NY:  Guilford Press.

Objectives
The student will be able to 

A. Describe general concepts of Motivational Interviewing. 

B. Describe the importance of contextual factors in interviewing and assessment. 

C. Apply general concepts of engagement. 

D. Demonstrate effective communication techniques in helping relationships.  

E. Develop a change plan. 

F. Demonstrate the skills specific to Motivational Interviewing. 

G. Evaluate motivational conversations.  

Content
A. Motivational Interviewing concepts  

B. Contextual factors  

C. General concepts  

D. Effective communication skills  

E. Stages of change

F. Motivational Interviewing skills 

G. Motivational Interviewing evaluation 

Student Evaluation
Objectives A - G will be evaluated through essays, exams, role play and written assignments.