What is motivational interviewing's stance on readiness to change?

• A. It strictly requires clients to admit they are ready to change.
• B. It uses direct persuasion and advice.
• C. It ignores client readiness and pushes for change.
• D. It respects where the client is in readiness; uses reflective listening to explore ambivalence and fosters movement toward change.

Answer: (D)

Motivational interviewing treats readiness to change as something to be explored and respected, not to be forced. The clinician meets the client where they are and uses reflective listening to surface ambivalence—the mixed feelings about changing—and to help the client articulate personal reasons for and against change. By validating autonomy and guiding rather than persuading, MI invites change talk and supports movement toward change at the client’s own pace. This approach stands in contrast to methods that require immediate readiness, apply direct persuasion, or push for change regardless of where the client stands.