Question
What is the fundamental motivational interviewing approach, and why is it flexible?
Answer
Motivational interviewing is fundamentally a conversation focused on change, emphasizing the client's or patient's motivations, reasoning, and concerns. The approach seeks to understand the factors driving their current behavior and what could drive potential changes if they choose that path. It stems from a place of curiosity, aiming to grasp the underlying reasons for behavior and the motivations for change.
This method is intentionally flexible to adapt to various situations, including socioeconomic and psychosocial contexts. While it might seem nebulous and situation-dependent, this flexibility is purposeful. It allows the technique to be personalized for each individual's circumstances rather than following a rigid, predefined protocol. The adaptability of motivational interviewing makes it a versatile tool for fostering meaningful change across diverse scenarios.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Motivational Interviewing, presented by Jennifer Stone, PT, DPT, OCS, PHC.
