Question: Circular Questioning and the Transtheoretical Stages of Change

Introduction: Any change, even a change for the better, is always accompanied by drawbacks and discomforts. (- Arnold Bennett, 19th Century British Novelist)

If you were to look at the typical caseload for a social worker, you would likely see clients who need a wide range of help and support to function in society. You also are likely to find some of those same clients are resistant to change even when the outcome is beneficial. An individual or family in need of help may find that change, however much clients desire it, has "drawbacks and discomforts." What can social workers do when clients need support in the change process and are resistant to change?

This week, you explore circular questioning and transtheoretical stages of change. These concepts are two important techniques that social workers use to help clients who are resistant to change.