Module 4: Planning – Commitment language
Commitment language
At this point in the conversation, you should have a good sense of what the woman is willing to commit to by having listened carefully to her change talk. We’re not looking for grand promises or solemn oaths, just a simple indication that she's going to take a step towards the behaviour change you’ve been discussing.
Watch Dr Steindl talk about commitment language and what it means for Sarah.
Commitment language, however weak it may seem on the surface, is a win here and a solid step towards change. As Dr Steindl mentioned, weaker commitment language just means we need to go back to the woman's ability change talk and remind her of her motivations and that she's capable of making the change.
Role play – Evoking ability change talk
While you watch, notice how the practitioner uses OARS to elicit commitment language from Sarah.
By affirming Sarah’s efforts and achievements, summarising her change talk and asking open questions about her commitment to change, the practitioner was able to evoke commitment language from Sarah. Even though Sarah’s commitment language may be on the weaker side, she has still not only committed to multiple behaviour changes to ensure she does her finger prick test four times a day, but she has also agreed to come back in a few weeks to check in.
