What is one key principle of Motivational Interviewing (MI)?

One key principle of Motivational Interviewing (MI) is that counselors must resist the righting reflex. This concept refers to the innate tendency of counselors to correct or direct clients towards what they perceive as the 'right' path or solution. By resisting this reflex, counselors create an open and collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts and feelings about change. This approach is central to MI, as it encourages clients to find their own motivations and reasons for change, leading to more sustainable behavioral adjustments.

Motivational Interviewing emphasizes understanding the client's perspective, building rapport, and fostering autonomy, which can be hindered if a counselor immediately tries to fix problems or impose solutions. This principle helps maintain a focus on the client's intrinsic motivations rather than external directives, making the counseling process more effective and client-centered.