Which statement about motivation in Motivational Interviewing is accurate?

• A. Motivation to change can be imposed externally
• B. All people are motivated to change some things
• C. Motivation to change is often impeded by ambivalence
• D. Ambivalence is rare

Answer: (B)

Motivation in Motivational Interviewing comes from the client and can be strengthened through a collaborative, reflective conversation rather than imposed from outside. People aren’t simply moved by force; the therapist taps into what the client already values and wants to change, helping them articulate reasons for change and cultivate those motivations.

Ambivalence is a normal, expected part of the change process in MI. Rather than a barrier, it signals areas to explore—pros and cons, values, and goals—to move toward change. Because of that, the idea that everyone is motivated to change some things fits MI’s view: even if a client isn’t ready to change the specific behavior under discussion, there are other aspects of life where motivation exists.

External pressure often undermines motivation and can trigger resistance, which is why imputing change from outside the client isn’t consistent with MI. Ambivalence being rare is also incorrect; MI treats it as common and something to address.