Progress toward Motivational Interviewing Proficiency in Corrections: Results of a Colorado Staff Development Program

Abstract

This study examines the outcomes of one effort to implement motivational interviewing practices among selected agents working in 17 Colorado criminal justice agencies. As part of a project designed to improve implementation capacity, 90 participating officers underwent systematic training and coaching and then were observed via audiotapes or direct observation in sessions with offenders. Project staff coded interactions with offenders using measures of motivational interviewing skills (e.g., open questions, complex reflections). Analysis of pre- and post-intervention changes showed considerable improvement from the training/coaching regime, but use of taped sessions with subsequent feedback did most to facilitate officer proficiency and offender change talk.

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