What is "sustain talk" in MI?

Sustain talk refers to the comments made by clients that express their desire to maintain their current behavior, thereby reinforcing the status quo rather than advocating for change. This can manifest in statements that highlight the benefits of existing habits or express reluctance or uncertainty about pursuing new behaviors. In motivational interviewing (MI), recognizing sustain talk is crucial because it provides insight into the client’s ambivalence and can inform the strategies used to facilitate a shift towards change.

Understanding sustain talk helps practitioners identify areas where clients may need support in navigating their thoughts about change. By acknowledging and exploring these comments, the practitioner can help clients articulate their motivations for change, facilitating a more productive dialogue about their goals and options moving forward. This kind of engagement is vital in motivational interviewing, where the ultimate aim is to promote client autonomy and empower them to make positive changes in their behavior.