Motivational interviewing is a counselling method that helps people resolve ambivalent feelings and insecurities to find the internal motivation they need to change their behavior. It is a practical, empathetic, and short-term process that takes into consideration how difficult it is to make life changes.
Concept of Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing was developed by clinical psychologists Dr. William R. Miller and Dr. Stephen Rollnick. The tenet of motivational interviewing is self-efficacy, the belief that one is capable of executing behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments. It is a deep-rooted technique of communication rather than a set of methods to trick patients into behaving in a particular way.
Four Pillars of Motivational Interviewing
There are four core principles at the heart of motivational interviewing which are partnership, acceptance, compassion and evocation or simply the P.A.C.E principles.
1. Partnership
Authentic two-way interaction is fundamental. Motivational interviewing depends on a cooperative alliance between the interviewer and the beneficiary, in which both parties bring their expertise.
2. Acceptance
Acceptance in motivational interviewing involves accepting the other person’s autonomy, absolute worth, and capacity for self-direction. This doesn’t imply agreement with everything the individual says. Rather, it denotes respect for their inherent value, understanding of their perspective and affirmation of their strengths and efforts.
3. Compassion
Compassion is integral in motivational interviewing. The interviewer genuinely cares for the wellbeing of the individual, empathising with their situation and needs, promoting actions that result in a beneficial outcome.
4. Evocation
Motivational interviewing believes that motivation for change is owned by the individual and elicited from within rather than being imposed from the outside.
Process of Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing involves a process that is structured around four general phases: engaging, focusing, evoking and planning.
1. Engaging
The process of motivational interviewing begins with engaging. This step is the foundation for the other steps and involves establishing a helpful connection and working relationship.
2. Focusing
Once a solid relationship has been established, the direction of the interview needs to be identified, which is focusing. It involves developing and maintaining a specific direction in the conversation about change.
3. Evoking
This is the core stage of motivational interviewing wherein the therapist evokes the client’s motivation for change. Evoking involves eliciting the client’s own motivations for change.
4. Planning
Lastly, the planning phase includes forming a specific change plan to which the client is committed. This phase involves consolidating the client’s motivation and helping the client to establish a concrete plan for change.
Practical Applications of Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing has been integrated into various areas like health promotion, mental health, addiction treatment, and criminal justice. It has been employed effectively as an adjunct to cognitive-behavioral therapy, specifically where treatment adherence is a concern. It has also proved beneficial in addressing issues such as smoking cessation, weight management, alcohol misuse, and drug abuse.
Motivational Interviewing is an effective counselling approach based on empathetic understanding and active listening. It proposes a collaborative, not confrontative, approach, and encourages individuals to tap into their inherent motivation to bring about meaningful changes. By fostering an environment of empathy, respect, and acceptance, it allows individuals to move beyond their ambivalence and find the impetus needed for change.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of Motivational Interviewing?
The main goal of motivational interviewing is to motivate individuals to change behaviors that are preventing them from making healthier choices.
2. Who uses Motivational Interviewing?
Professionals such as doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, health coaches, social workers, and nurses frequently use motivational interviewing techniques.
3. Is Motivational Interviewing effective?
Research has found motivational interviewing to be effective in promoting behavioral change, especially in individuals who were initially resistant to change.
4. How long does Motivational Interviewing take?
The duration of motivational interviewing can vary based on individual needs. It’s typically a short-term treatment, with one to four sessions.
