Background: The Intentional Relationship Model (IRM) introduced six therapeutic modes as ways of relating to clients. By increasing occupational therapists' awareness of modes, and by increasing their skills in using them, therapists may improve their interactions with clients. The Self-Assessment of Modes Questionnaire may assist in increasing awareness of modes.
Aim: To describe the process of developing a Norwegian version of the Self-Assessment of Modes Questionnaire (N-SAMQ) and to evaluate its content validity.
Materials and methods: A 10-step translation and adaptation procedure was followed. Occupational therapists working in diverse practice areas completed the preliminary N-SAMQ version. Individual cognitive interviews were performed with these therapists in order to examine the comprehensibility and cultural appropriateness of the N-SAMQ.
Results: Initially, one item was omitted. Following the pilot study (n = 7), two of the remaining items were modified with a view to increasing their cultural relevance. Otherwise, modifications were made mostly in terms of words and phrasing.
Conclusion: The N-SAMQ appears to have good face and content validity.
Significance: With the N-SAMQ, Norwegian occupational therapists can assess their preferred therapeutic modes.
Keywords: Intentional Relationship Model; therapeutic modes; therapeutic relationship; therapist self-awareness; use of self.