In Motivational Interviewing, which statement best describes the guiding style?

In Motivational Interviewing, which statement best describes the guiding style?

• A. It is strictly directive with little client input
• B. It is a passive listening style
• C. It balances structure with client-led content
• D. It is a confrontational approach

Answer: (C)

Motivational Interviewing’s guiding style centers on collaboration, autonomy, and gentle guidance. It blends enough structure to keep the conversation focused with plenty of room for the client to steer content toward what matters most to them. The practitioner uses open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations to explore why change matters, while inviting the client to set goals, choose options, and voice preferences. This approach invites change talk and commitment while honoring the client’s values and readiness, rather than dictating what should be done. It avoids being purely directive, passive, or confrontational by maintaining a cooperative conversation where the client’s input shapes the path forward.

Motivational Interviewing’s guiding style centers on collaboration, autonomy, and gentle guidance. It blends enough structure to keep the conversation focused with plenty of room for the client to steer content toward what matters most to them. The practitioner uses open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations to explore why change matters, while inviting the client to set goals, choose options, and voice preferences. This approach invites change talk and commitment while honoring the client’s values and readiness, rather than dictating what should be done. It avoids being purely directive, passive, or confrontational by maintaining a cooperative conversation where the client’s input shapes the path forward.