Which set lists all five key Motivational Interviewing principles?

• A. Express Empathy; Develop Discrepancy; Avoid Argument; Support Self-Efficacy; Roll With Resistance
• B. Express Empathy; Roll With Resistance; Direct Confrontation; Coercion
• C. Reflective Listening; Advice Giving; Authority
• D. Empathy; Critique; Demand Change; Threat

Answer: (A)

The main concept here is the five guiding Motivational Interviewing principles that shape a collaborative, nonconfrontational approach to help clients change. The best answer lists: Express Empathy, Develop Discrepancy, Roll With Resistance, Avoid Argument, and Support Self-Efficacy.

Express Empathy means using reflective listening to understand the client’s perspective and feelings, which builds trust and reduces defensiveness. Develop Discrepancy helps clients see the mismatch between their current behavior and their values or goals, creating motivation to change. Roll With Resistance treats resistance as information and responds without arguing or pushing, which keeps the conversation collaborative. Avoid Argument is about steering away from confrontation, since arguing tends to entrench resistance; instead, invite dialogue and explore ambivalence. Finally, Support Self-Efficacy focuses on strengthening the client’s belief in their own ability to change, reinforcing confidence and highlighting past successes.

The other options mix in techniques or stances that aren’t listed as the five guiding principles (for example, direct confrontation, coercion, or authority), or substitute MI skills (like reflective listening or advice) for the core principles.