Motivational Interviewing & Stages of Change Flashcards

A peer says, "Part of you wants to stop drinking, and part of you worries you'll lose your friends." What type of reflection is this?

Answer: Double-sided reflection

A double-sided reflection captures both sides of the person's ambivalence in one statement.

What is the main purpose of an amplified reflection in MI?

Answer: To slightly overstate sustain talk so the person voices the other side

Overstating sustain talk, without sarcasm, often prompts the person to back off and argue for change.

Which ratio of reflections to questions is generally recommended in MI practice?

Answer: At least two reflections for every question

MI practice standards aim for about two or more reflections per question to deepen engagement.

Near the end of a meeting, a peer pulls together key points and moves toward next steps. What kind of summary is this?

Answer: Transitional summary

A transitional summary wraps up a topic or session and shifts toward a new focus.

Which statement is the best example of an MI affirmation?

Answer: "You showed real determination by calling your sponsor when the craving hit."

Effective affirmations name specific strengths or efforts rather than offering generic praise or approval.

In MI, the "righting reflex" refers to:

Answer: The helper's urge to fix the problem or argue for change

MI asks helpers to resist the righting reflex because arguing for change tends to produce sustain talk.

Which statement is an example of sustain talk?

Answer: "I've tried quitting before and it never sticks, so why bother."

Sustain talk favors the status quo, while the other options are change talk.