Facilitating patient behavior change is a constant challenge for primary care physicians and other clinicians. According to one estimate, up to 75% of primary care visits involve engaging patients in changing a habit or starting medications.¹ Given the time pressure and complex psychosocial dynamics we encounter daily in primary care, it can be daunting to effectively promote behavior changes that will improve health outcomes. Ultimately, the motivation to change must come from patients themselves. The key question is how can we maximize our patients’ motivation to change?

The answer lies in self-determination theory (SDT). By incorporating simple, evidence-based strategies rooted in SDT,² clinicians can help facilitate behavior change, foster stronger patient relationships, improve patient outcomes, and reduce frustration for both clinicians and patients.