What is the purpose of motivational interviewing (MI)?

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a client-centered counseling style designed to enhance an individual's intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. The main goal of MI is to strengthen personal motivation and commitment to specific goals, particularly in contexts such as health behavior change, addiction treatment, and exercise adherence. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the client's perspective, fostering a supportive environment, and guiding them to articulate their own reasons for change, thereby increasing their commitment to the process.

By focusing on personal motivation rather than imposing external motivations, MI seeks to empower individuals, helping them recognize their own desires and capabilities for change. This process often involves reflective listening and open-ended questions, which encourage clients to talk about their feelings, thoughts, and aspirations regarding behavioral changes. The emphasis on internal motivation aligns with research suggesting that self-determined motivation leads to more sustainable behavior change compared to reliance on external pressures.

In summary, the essence of motivational interviewing lies in its ability to foster a supportive dialogue that strengthens an individual's own motivation and commitment to making positive changes in their life.