Introduction
Motivational interviewing (MI) is a set of protocols designed to help individuals to explore and resolve ambivalence about practicing a specific health behavior and to develop motivation and plan for sustaining the behavior. It is a client-centered, collaborative approach that addresses the client's personal concerns and involves three primary components: collaboration, evocation, and planning (Kabat-Zinn, 1990).
MI Techniques
The core of motivational interviewing is listening. As an interviewer, you listen actively, silence may be the most powerful tool you have at your disposal. By listening and remaining silent, you allow the client space to reflect and self-reflect, which may lead to them realizing their want and need to make a change. You also use open-ended questions to encourage the client to share their own thoughts and feelings about their behavior.
When working with clients who are ambivalent, you use strategies such as listening and silence to allow the ambivalence to subside. You might also use diversion to guide the client to express their ambivalence and the pros and cons of changing their behavior. Once the client has had the opportunity to vent their ambivalence, and their mind is more tranquil, you can then offer empathy and supportive responses that acknowledge their importance and the efforts being made for positive change.
MI in Practice
* To start, you would establish a connection with the client by discussing their reason for wanting to change their behavior. For example, if a client wants to lose weight, you might ask them open-ended questions like "What is motivating you to want to shed some pounds?"
* Next, you would use listening skills and silence to allow the client to self-reflect. This is typically done by asking "What do you find challenging about maintaining a healthy lifestyle?"
* You would then provide empathy and supportive responses that acknowledge their efforts and the positive changes they are making.
MI Examples
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A client comes to you stating that they want to reduce their alcohol intake. After developing rapport and asking开放式 questions, you may learn that they drink because of social situations. You would use listening and silence to allow them space to reflect and consider their reasons.
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Another client comes to you who struggles with stress and anxiety. After establishing rapport and exploring their reasons for seeking help, you may learn that they have tried many other forms of therapy but none have been effective. By listening and silence, you allow them the space to recognize their need for change and the pros and cons of their current approach.
MI is a powerful tool that helps clients move from being ambivalent about change to taking action. As an interviewer, it's crucial to use actively listening techniques, including listening and silence, to support the client on their journey towards change. With patience, empathy, and collaboration, you can help your clients overcome their ambivalence and develop the motivation needed to sustain positive behavior change.
