Computer-Assisted Motivational Intervention (CAMI)

Model effectiveness research report last updated: 2012

Model overview

Theoretical approach

A variety of strategies have been explored to reduce repeat childbearing among adolescent girls, but the results have been modest. The Computer-Assisted Motivational Intervention (CAMI) was based on the premise that the limited success of previous programs might have been due to the lack of attention paid to teens’ level of motivation and ambivalence towards changing their contraceptive behaviors. CAMI was designed to delay repeat childbearing among adolescent girls by increasing the use of contraceptives.

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Model services

CAMI provided quarterly home visits during which the participants completed a computer-based survey about their sexual relationships, contraceptive intentions and plans, and current pregnancy prevention practices such as condom use. An algorithm assessed the participant’s risk for repeat pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections and readiness to use contraception and/or condoms. A CAMI counselor used these algorithm results to conduct a 20 to 30 minute tailored, motivational interview with the participant. During the interview, the teen participant and her counselor discussed how the teen’s goals and actions aligned and the counselor encouraged the participant to change her behavior.

No information was available about the curriculum used.

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Intended population

CAMI enrolled pregnant and parenting African American adolescents between ages 12 and 18.

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Where to find out more

Beth Barnet, MD
University of Maryland
Family Medicine
29 S. Paca St., Lower Level
Baltimore, MD 21201

Email: bbarnet@som.umaryland.edu

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