In Motivational Interviewing, ambivalence is typically resolved by whom?

• A. The client alone must resolve it
• B. The therapist providing direct advice
• C. The client articulates it and resolves it through interpersonal interaction
• D. External incentives

Answer: (C)

Ambivalence in Motivational Interviewing is resolved through the client articulating their own mixed feelings and working through them in a collaborative, interactive conversation. The therapist guides this process with open-ended questions, reflective listening, and other empathic techniques, helping the client voice both sides of the dilemma and surface reasons for and against change. Because the motivation for change comes from within the client, the resolution happens through interpersonal dialogue rather than being imposed by the clinician or driven by external rewards. Direct advice can provoke resistance and external incentives can undermine autonomous motivation, whereas the MI approach Centers on the client's own statements and deliberations, which strengthens readiness and commitment to change.