Sample interview questions: How do you address challenging behavior in individuals who have a history of substance abuse or addiction?
Sample answer:
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Conduct a comprehensive assessment:
Gather detailed information about the individual’s substance abuse history, current substance use patterns, and any co-occurring mental health disorders. This data will help you understand the contributing factors to their challenging behaviors. -
Develop a strong therapeutic relationship:
Establishing trust and rapport with the individual is crucial for successful behavior change. Engage in non-judgmental and empathetic communication to create a safe and supportive environment. -
Focus on harm reduction:
In the initial stages of recovery, the goal is to reduce harm rather than achieving complete abstinence. Encourage the individual to set realistic goals, such as reducing the frequency or amount of substance use, and provide positive reinforcement for progress. -
Teach coping skills:
Individuals with a history of substance abuse often lack effective coping mechanisms for dealing with stress, cravings, and negative emotions. Teach them skills such as mindfulness, meditation, relaxation techniques, and problem-solving to help manage these challenges. -
Provide contingency management:
Contingency management involves using positive or negative consequences to influence behavior. Provide tangible rewards or privileges for achieving desired behaviors, such as attending therapy sessions, maintaining sobriety, or engaging in prosocial activities. Negative consequences should be applied consistently and fairly for engag… Read full answer