The Box
The Box is an effective way to help ambivalent clients and explore with them what might encourage them to take action on their hearing loss. By answering the four questions in the Box, the client is prompted to think about the pros and cons of either doing nothing about their hearing loss or acting on it.
It is important that your clients fill out the Box themselves. Afterwards, ask follow-up questions and encourage your clients to elaborate.
The Box can be used in combination with the Line for a more complete picture of the client’s thoughts about their hearing loss and motivation to act on it.
Instructions
Step 1
Ask your client, “What are the advantages of continuing as you are today?”
Have them write their response in the first square.
Step 2
Ask your client, “What are the disadvantages of continuing as you are today?”
Have them write their response in the second square. Summarize by contrasting the advantages and disadvantages of continuing as they are today. Help them evaluate which arguments are most important to them.
Step 3
Ask your client, “What are the disadvantages of acting on your hearing loss?”
Have them write their response in the third square.
Step 4
Ask your client, “What are the advantages of acting on your hearing loss?”
Have them write their response in the final square. Summarize their responses by contrasting the advantages and disadvantages of acting on their hearing loss.
Help them evaluate which arguments are most important to them.
Ask your client, “What would you like to do next?”
Respect your client’s decision. If they prefer to continue as they are today, provide them with information and encourage them to reflect on their hearing and return later if they wish.
