Which is a core element of motivational interviewing?

• A. Express empathy, develop discrepancy, roll with resistance, support self-efficacy, and plan collaboratively with client
• B. Confront client resistance directly to push change
• C. Provide direct instruction without client input
• D. Focus on why clients must change without collaboration

Answer: (A)

Motivational interviewing centers on a collaborative, empathic approach that helps clients resolve ambivalence about change. The techniques reflect that stance: expressing empathy to build trust; suggesting or highlighting discrepancies between the client’s current behavior and their values or goals to motivate change; rolling with resistance instead of arguing or forcing; supporting the client’s belief in their own ability to change (self-efficacy); and planning for change in partnership with the client.

This combination is what makes it effective in guiding change, because it respects the client’s autonomy and draws out their own motivations rather than pushing a preset agenda. Confronting resistance directly, giving direct instructions without client input, or focusing on why change is necessary without collaboration all run counter to this collaborative, client-centered method.