7 Traps that doctors and dentists frequently step into when engaging patients. Based on the work of Lynn Carlisle

1. 7Traps
assessment trap
expert trap
treatment plan trap
pre-mature focus
labeling trap
blaming trap
chat trap
Carlisle DDS, Lynn D (2014-10-22). 6 from “Motivational

2. “Dentist jumps in assess and
gives a solution” “A behavioral
disaster”
Carlisle DDS, Lynn D (2014-10-22). Motivational Interviewing in Dentistry: Helping People Become
Healthier

3. Dr. Reviews Chart
Dr. Asks Clinical Questions
Dr. Does Exam
Dr. Makes Diagnosis
Dr. Gives Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
Dr. Asks if Patient Has Questions
Carlisle DDS, Lynn D (2014-10-22). Motivational Interviewing in Dentistry: Helping People Become
Healthier

4. Dr. Makes a plan, independent of patients
wants & understanding
Lacks collaboration
Lacks understanding
Violates “Slow is Fast” principle
Creates a sense of being overwhelmed,
defeated & lost

5. Doctor discovers the what
without verifying the why.
Doctor’s focus shifts to fixing
what they want to do first, or feel
is most important.

6. Doctor or staff judges patient
Doctor or staff groups patient
with others who have had a
similar presentation or group of
issues.

7. Doctor or staff blames patient for
condition or level of compliance
and engagement.
Result is defensiveness and
inserts barriers to healing.

8. Focus becomes “small talk”
Too heavy on rapport instead of
health or lack of health.
“If you stay in small talk, any chance
of having a meaningful conversation
or interview is lost.” Carlisle DDS, Lynn D (2014-10-22). Motivational Interviewing in
Dentistry: Helping People Become Healthier