Measuring motivational readiness for change among drug addicts in Malaysia: A descriptive analysis

Abstract

Motivational readiness to change is a key strength and success of drug addicts to remain drug free and prevent relapse. This study is provided to measure the motivational readiness to change among rehabilitees of national drug rehabilitation center (PUSPEN) in Malaysia. The rehabilitees' motivation and stages of readiness to change was measured by the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES). A total of 593 rehabilitees from 6 drug rehabilitation centers in Peninsular Malaysia were chosen using stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive analyses. Results showed majority of respondents indicated high readiness which was demonstrated in the dimensions of recognition and taking steps to change and recover from drug addiction. On the other hand, results also demonstrated that majority of drug addicts were still feeling ambivalent and unsure whether they can control the problems associated with drug addiction. Results gave a positive indication to the Malaysian government in particular in seeking methods to rehabilitate drug addicts to remain free from the influence of drugs as majority of them showed high motivational and readiness to change. Likewise, ex-addicts should also be given moral and social support to ensure they maintain continuous recovery, live free from drugs and prevent future relapse. © Medwell Journals, 2010.