Hvötunarviðtöl

Hvötunarviðtöl, also known as motivational interviewing, is a counseling approach designed to help individuals explore and resolve their ambivalence about behavior change. It is a collaborative conversation style where the interviewer aims to elicit the person's own motivations for change. Rather than directly confronting or challenging resistance, the interviewer uses specific techniques to strengthen the person's commitment to change.

The core principles of hvötunarviðtöl include expressing empathy, developing discrepancy, rolling with resistance, and supporting self-efficacy. Expressing empathy involves understanding the client's perspective without judgment. Developing discrepancy focuses on helping the client see the gap between their current behavior and their desired future or values. Rolling with resistance means avoiding direct arguments and instead exploring the client's concerns in a non-confrontational manner. Supporting self-efficacy is about building the client's belief in their ability to make and sustain change.

Hvötunarviðtöl is often used in various settings, including healthcare, addiction treatment, mental health counseling, and coaching. It has been found to be effective in promoting a wide range of behavior changes, such as quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, improving medication adherence, and addressing problematic substance use. The approach emphasizes the client's autonomy and right to make their own decisions.