Which MI concept is demonstrated by identifying with the client's feelings, thoughts, and attitudes?

• A. Express Empathy
• B. Develop Discrepancy
• C. Roll With Resistance
• D. Support Self-Efficacy

Answer: (A)

Expressing empathy is the concept demonstrated by identifying with the client's feelings, thoughts, and attitudes. In motivational interviewing, empathy means recognizing and validating what the client is experiencing, communicating that understanding in a nonjudgmental way, which helps build trust and safety. This stance encourages the client to open up, explore ambivalence, and discuss change more honestly.

Developing discrepancy focuses on highlighting the gap between the client’s values or goals and their current behavior, to enhance motivation for change. Rolling with resistance involves avoiding confrontation and accepting the client’s perspective to reduce defensiveness. Supporting self-efficacy aims to bolster confidence in the client’s ability to change. While these are important MI skills, they don’t specifically describe identifying with the client’s feelings, thoughts, and attitudes.