What is the primary focus of Motivational Interviewing in substance abuse treatment?

The primary focus of Motivational Interviewing (MI) in substance abuse treatment is resolving ambivalence. This therapeutic approach recognizes that individuals often experience mixed feelings about their substance use and the potential changes they may need to make. MI aims to help clients explore these conflicting feelings in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment, allowing them to articulate their reasons for change, motivations, and the pros and cons of their current behavior.

By facilitating a conversation that enhances self-awareness and personal motivation, MI empowers clients to take ownership of their decision-making process regarding substance use. It respects the individual's autonomy and fosters a sense of personal agency, making it more likely that clients will work towards change that feels authentic and relevant to them.

The other options present approaches that either undermine the individual's autonomy or are not central to the MI framework. Encouraging coercive behavior change or imposing external values onto the individual runs counter to the MI philosophy, which is built on collaboration and respect for client choice. Additionally, while promoting complete abstinence can be an outcome of treatment, MI does not solely focus on abstinence; instead, it emphasizes the individual’s personal goals and readiness to change, which may or may not include abstinence as a target.