Which MI principle directly involves linking current behavior to personal goals to stimulate motivation for change?

• A. Developing discrepancy.
• B. Expressing empathy.
• C. Rolling with resistance.
• D. Supporting self-efficacy.

Answer: (B)

Developing discrepancy is about helping someone see the mismatch between where they are now and where their personal goals, values, or aspirations would place them. By guiding a client to articulate what they value (for example, health, family, independence) and then gently comparing that with their current behavior, you create awareness of the conflict. This perceived gap motivates change because the client recognizes that continuing the current behavior undermines what they truly want.

In practice, you might explore the client’s goals and values, then reflect on how their present actions align or conflict with those goals. The motivation to change grows as they notice the discrepancy and decide they want to resolve it.

Expressing empathy supports a trusting relationship and open communication, but it doesn’t inherently connect actions to goals. Rolling with resistance aims to avoid arguing and sustain engagement, not specifically highlight goal-behavior gaps. Supporting self-efficacy builds confidence to change, but it doesn’t by itself reveal the difference between current behavior and personal goals.