(1) the degree to which clients have insight into the effects of their use of marijuana and its effect on their life and life satisfaction; and
(2) how receptive clients are to obtaining needed clinical interventions.

Scoring: The checklist is designed so that the greater the number of selected items, the higher the motivation of the client to pursue appropriate interventions to regain control over his/her marijuana use.

Administration and Clinical Use: It is recommended the Readiness for Change Checklist be presented to new clients during the initial assessment or intake interview. The checklist of items can be administered orally to clients or clients can complete the checklist of items independently. The clinician can use the results to highlight discussion points to be emphasized during the initial intake interview, such as understanding of the harmful effects of marijuana on the client's life and the client's receptivity or willingness to pursue clinical interventions to ameliorate the effect of marijuana abuse.

Please check each of the following that is true for you:

__________ 1. I am tired of "medicating myself" to solve my problems.
__________ 2. I can't remember what my life was like before I started using marijuana.
__________ 3. Sometimes, I think I am only living to get the "next high" from smoking marijuana.
__________ 4. I worry that I have hurt some of my relationships because of my abuse of marijuana.
__________ 5. I know that I am powerless over my desire for marijuana.
__________ 6. I know that if I continue to use marijuana, I will harm my health.
__________ 7. I am ashamed about some of the things I have done while under the influence of marijuana.
__________ 8. I think it is likely that I may die if I continue abusing substances.
__________ 9. I have to admit that I have lost the battle over my use of marijuana.
__________ 10. I need to stop abusing my body before it's too late.
__________ 11. I would like to regain control of my life.
__________ 12. I need help to overcome my addiction to marijuana.
__________ 13. I'm scared, but I think I can stop using marijuana if I get help.
__________ 14. Despite my fears, I would like to get treated for my marijuana use.
__________ 15. I am ready to start treatment for my marijuana abuse problem.

Sylvia Kay Fisher is a research psychologist at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. She was formerly a therapist who has extensive experience with gay and lesbian clients. Ronnie Fisher is a professor of psychology at Miami-Dade Community College. Previously, he was a social worker and counselor.