Factor, Concurrent and Predictive Validity of the Readiness to Change Questionnaire [Treatment Version] Among Non-Treatment-Seeking Individuals

Aims: This study assessed the factor, concurrent and predictive validity of the revised Readiness to Change Questionnaire [Treatment Version] (RCQ[TV]) among non-treatment-seeking individuals. Methods: Non-treatment-seeking patients (M-age = 34.8, SD = 12.4) who screened positive for alcohol misuse were recruited from three urban Level I Trauma Centers and completed the RCQ[TV] (Heather et al. [(1999) Development of a treatment version of the Readiness to Change Questionnaire. Addict Res 7, 63-83]). Results: A confirmatory factor analysis supported the three-factor structure of the RCQ[TV]. Observed scores for precontemplation, contemplation and action demonstrated concurrent validity, as they were correlated with drinking and alcohol-related problems prior to baseline assessment. Finally, RCQ[TV] scores at baseline added to the predictability of an alcohol consumption composite score at a 3-month follow-up after controlling for baseline alcohol consumption and randomization to treatment arm. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the RCQ[TV] has desirable psychometric properties and supports the use of the RCQ[TV] among non-treatment-seeking patients with alcohol misuse.