Which MI approach is used to explore ambivalence in clients?

• A. Jumping to conclusions
• B. Open-ended questions
• C. Telling clients what to do
• D. Ignoring concerns

Answer: (B)

Open-ended questions are the way to explore ambivalence in clients. They invite the client to talk about their own motives, concerns, and values, and to weigh the pros and cons of change in their own words. This helps bring ambivalence into the conversation in a nonjudgmental way, so the client can openly express both sides and you can tailor the conversation to support progress. Open-ended prompts like “What are the benefits you see with making a change?” and “What concerns do you have about changing?” let the client articulate change talk and hesitations, guiding the session toward resolving ambivalence.

Other approaches don’t fit as well. Jumping to conclusions rushes to a judgment and can shut down honest exploration. Telling clients what to do is directive and often triggers resistance or defensiveness. Ignoring concerns leaves ambivalence unaddressed and damages rapport, making it harder to move toward change.