Table 2. Key components of MET and their application in tobacco cessation.
SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound; MET: motivational enhancement therapy
| Component of MET | Description | Application in Tobacco Cessation |
| Assessment and feedback [26] | A structured evaluation of the patient’s tobacco use, including motivations, barriers, and readiness to change | Use tools like motivational interviews and self-assessment questionnaires to understand tobacco dependence levels |
| Developing discrepancy [27] | Helping the patient recognize the gap between their current behavior (tobacco use) and future goals (cessation) | Discuss how continued smoking contradicts the patient's long-term health and personal life goals |
| Expressing empathy [28] | Building a non-judgmental and understanding relationship with the patient, creating a supportive environment | Use empathetic communication to encourage openness and self-reflection regarding tobacco habits |
| Enhancing motivation [29] | Encouraging the patient to explore their reasons for quitting and reinforcing their motivation to change | Focus on the benefits of quitting smoking, such as improved health, finances, and social relationships |
| Rolling with resistance [30] | Avoiding confrontation by accepting and acknowledging the patient’s ambivalence toward quitting | Respect the patient’s pace and reasons for hesitation, offering gentle guidance rather than pushing |
| Supporting self-efficacy [31] | Empowering the patient to believe in their ability to quit smoking and sustain abstinence | Highlight past successes in quitting or managing difficult tasks to boost confidence in quitting tobacco |
| Goal setting and action plan [32] | Creating SMART goals for smoking cessation | Work with the patient to set small, realistic steps toward cessation, such as reducing the number of cigarettes |
| Ongoing monitoring and adaptation [33] | Continuously assessing progress and adapting strategies to suit the patient’s evolving needs and challenges | Regular follow-ups, adjusting goals or techniques based on progress, and addressing any relapses |