How many principles are there in Motivational Interviewing (MI)?

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered, directive method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. There are five principles in MI that guide practitioners in their approach to working with clients. These principles are designed to help build rapport, empower clients, and facilitate their readiness to change.

The five principles of MI are:

1. Express Empathy: This involves understanding the client’s perspective and conveying acceptance, which helps to create a safe environment for clients to share their thoughts and feelings.

2. Develop Discrepancy: This principle encourages clients to recognize the gap between their current behavior and their broader goals or values, motivating them to consider change.

3. Roll with Resistance: Rather than confronting resistance directly, practitioners are taught to roll with it, allowing clients to express their ambivalence without feeling judged or pressured.

4. Support Self-Efficacy: Encouraging clients to believe in their ability to change supports their confidence and reinforces the likelihood of successful behavior change.

5. Engage in Collaborative Conversations: MI emphasizes a partnership where the client is active in the conversation rather than a passive recipient of advice, which enhances their commitment to the process of change.

Understanding these principles is essential for effective