What Is Motivational Interviewing?

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a collaborative, goal-oriented communication style designed to strengthen a person's own motivation for change. It is particularly effective with students who are resistant or ambivalent about changing their behavior.

Core Principles (RULE)

Key Techniques (OARS)

Open-Ended Questions

• "What concerns do you have about your current situation?"
• "What would your life look like if things were different?"
• "What's the best thing that could happen if you made this change?"

Affirmations

• "It took courage for you to come talk to me today."
• "You clearly care about your family — that says a lot about you."
• "You've been through a lot and you're still here."

Reflections

• Simple reflection: "So you're feeling frustrated."
• Complex reflection: "It sounds like part of you wants to change, but another part isn't sure it's worth the effort."
• Double-sided reflection: "On one hand, you enjoy hanging out with those friends. On the other hand, you recognize it's getting you in trouble."

Summaries

• Collect and reflect back the key themes
• Transition to action: "Where does this leave you?"

Using MI in School Settings

• Initial meeting after a behavioral incident — Instead of lecturing, explore the student's perspective
• Academic intervention conversations — "What does success look like for you?"
• Substance use conversations — Explore ambivalence without judgment
• Attendance meetings — "What makes it hard to come to school?"