In motivational interviewing (MI), how is human nature viewed by the therapist?

In motivational interviewing (MI), therapists adopt a view of human nature as fundamentally good. This perspective stems from the belief that individuals possess inherent strengths and the capacity for positive change. Therapists utilizing MI focus on fostering a collaborative relationship that empowers clients, encouraging them to explore their own motivations and values. The premise is that, given the right support and empathetic engagement, individuals can navigate their ambivalence and discover pathways to healthier choices.

This view aligns with the principles of humanistic psychology, which emphasize self-actualization and the belief that people are capable of making wise decisions when they feel supported and understood. In MI, the therapist's role is to facilitate this process by nurturing the client's own insights and promoting autonomy rather than prescribing solutions.

In contrast, viewpoints that classify human nature as undeveloped until interaction with the environment occurs emphasize the influence of social factors over individual potential. The idea of searching for the meaning of life may resonate with existential approaches but does not capture the central tenets of MI. Similarly, the notion of being born with potential for irrational thinking does not reflect the empowering and positive focus that defines the MI approach. The correct answer accurately reflects the ethos of motivational interviewing, which centers on the belief in the goodness and potential inherent in every individual