What therapeutic approach focuses on enhancing readiness for behavioral change?

Motivational interviewing is a therapeutic approach specifically designed to enhance an individual's readiness to change their behavior. This technique is particularly effective in situations where the person may be ambivalent or uncertain about modifying their behaviors, such as in cases of addiction or health-related behaviors.

The core of motivational interviewing lies in its collaborative style, which empowers individuals to articulate their reasons for change, thereby increasing their intrinsic motivation. It focuses on understanding the person’s perspective, emphasizing empathetic listening, and guiding them toward discovering their own motivations and options for change. This method contrasts with more directive approaches, allowing clients to take the lead in discussing their thoughts and feelings about change, which fosters a stronger readiness to act.

In contrast, cognitive behavioral therapy primarily seeks to modify unhelpful or negative thought patterns to affect behavioral change, while dialectical behavior therapy is tailored for individuals with borderline personality disorder and emphasizes emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Psychoanalysis focuses on unconscious processes and exploring past experiences to understand current behavior, rather than directly addressing motivation for change. Therefore, motivational interviewing stands out as the ideal approach for enhancing readiness for behavioral change.