Answer Happy

Relapse Jascen has always had trouble with his weight. He was not coordinated as a child and was often picked on. He would spend most of his time at home in his room watching television, reading books, and snacking. He is 150 lbs. overweight and has started to see health problems resulting from his weight and inactivity. His doctor put him on a diet that will help him lose the weight and reduce the health problems. He must also engage in exercise. Jascen has agreed to change because he met a girl he likes and he wants to be able to take her out on a date. He began his diet about one month ago and was happy with the quick weight loss. He got rid of all of his snacks and created an instant change in his lifestyle. You are his diet coach. He meets with you once each week to go over meal plans and exercise schedules. You noticed last week that he was not as enthusiastic and had trouble looking you in the eye. He did not give much input into his meal plans and left as quickly as possible. This week, you want to get a better idea of his motivation long-term, so you begin to ask questions about his commitment. You: Hi Jascen, how are you today? Jascen: I am okay (Jascen does not look at you as he speaks). I need to cut our meeting short because I have an appointment. You: Okay, we can start with your weigh-in and discuss what you have eaten this past week. How about that? Jascen: If you want. I really haven't done anything different this week. (Jascen still does not seem comfortable, especially as he gets on the scale) You: You have gained 3 pounds, Jascen. This could just be fluctuation in water weight, but just to be sure, has anything changed this last week? Jascen: No! I don't know how that could happen. What are you accusing me of? (Jascen's tone is defensive) You: I am just asking if something changed this past week. Jascen you seem uncomfortable today. I am here to help, so if something has happened, please let me help you. Jascen: I am a failure! I couldn't take it anymore and I went to the bakery and bought some doughnuts. I ate all of them. Then, since I messed everything up, I bought some chips and dip and pop. I spent the whole weekend eating. (Jascen is obviously very upset with himself and is trying not to cry) You: Jascen you are not a failure. Lapses happen to everyone, and you have made some very large changes in a very short time. I think it might have been too short a time. We need to go back and look at a different plan. Jascen: What do you mean? I thought I had to give up everything all at once. You: No, this might be a good learning experience for both of us. Which parts of our original plan do you find easier to stick with, and which ones are more difficult? Jascen: I do not mind the change to more fruits and vegetables, but I really miss having a treat every now and then. I used to really look forward to my dessert each night. I guess the exercise is okay, but I hate doing it for an hour each day, and I really do not like the weight lifting. **********
Evaluate the Report of Relapse. What happened in this scenario? Analyze the way thoughts drove Jascen to act-or not act. What are some reasons for this? Explore expectations in this scenario based on McClelland's Theory or Herzberg's Theory of Motivation. How does hope play a role after relapse? Now it is time for you to continue this dialogue and help Jascen create new strategies for change and maintenance while addressing the issues that probably contributed to the lapse. Refer to Herzberg's and McClelland's theories as you go. Use the space on the next page to finish out the dialogue.
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