What is emphasized in the "adjust to resistance" principle of MI?

The emphasis in the "adjust to resistance" principle of Motivational Interviewing (MI) centers on accepting client ambivalence toward change. This principle recognizes that clients may experience conflicting feelings about making changes and that these mixed emotions are a normal part of the change process.

By focusing on accepting ambivalence, counselors create a supportive environment where clients feel safe to explore their feelings and thoughts without pressure. This approach helps to build rapport and trust, encouraging clients to articulate their concerns and motivations for change. Instead of pushing against resistance, which can often lead to defensiveness or withdrawal, counselors who accept ambivalence facilitate a more open dialogue. This allows clients to process their feelings at their own pace, ultimately making them more likely to consider and enact positive changes.

In contrast, the other approaches, such as confronting resistance directly or trying to overcome objections, can provoke pushback from clients, leading to disengagement. Encouraging immediate change can also be counterproductive, as it may not align with the client's readiness to change. Emphasizing acceptance helps to align with the client's internal motivations and recognizes their current state without judgment.