Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered and purpose-oriented interview style that explores the client’s ambivalence such as conflicting emotions and attitudes and encourages behavioral changes to resolve them. It has been proven to be effective in treating various addictions, including smoking cessation guidance. Young people, more so adolescents, are often the most intricate clients to handle concerning psychotherapy. The unique challenges and opportunities that come with dealing with young people make MI one of the best approaches when working with them. Several unique features of MI make it stands out as the best counseling approach for adolescents.
Compared to other approaches, the principle underlying MI is unique compared to other methods. According to definition given by Naar-King & Suarez (2011), MI represents a methodological approach, a style of interpersonal communication that strictly maintains a balance of guiding and client-oriented components. It is united by a philosophical concept and an understanding of the mechanisms that trigger change. Based on the theory of humanism and cognitive dissonance, it emphasizes the use of empathy and developmental differences to enhance the client’s internal motivation to change behavior. This approach helps in solving the issue of ambivalence, which is a big setback in behavior change process.
The other reason that makes MI particularly suitable for counselling adolescents and young adults is because it respects client’s autonomy. During identity crisis, they tend to resist authority. While other approaches may prescribe the recommendations to the client, autonomy is an important spirit in MI. Whether or not the client’s behavior changes depends on the client and respect for the client’s autonomy. It just offers alternatives and allows the client to make choice. That is why it is considered suitable for those clients who do not independently seek help (including unmotivated, pessimistic, or skeptical).
Reference
Naar-King, S., & Suarez, M. (2011). Motivational interviewing with adolescents and young adults. Guilford Press.