Motivational Interviewing (MI) is particularly valuable for altruism when ambivalence about change is blocking recovery.
Ambivalence in Altruism
People with altruism are often ambivalent about change — part wants relief, part fears the unknown of being without familiar altruism patterns. This is normal, not resistance.
How MI Addresses Altruism Ambivalence
MI uses specific techniques to help people explore and resolve their ambivalence about altruism treatment:
- Reflective listening: Hearing and naming both sides of altruism ambivalence
- Decisional balance: Exploring pros and cons of changing vs. staying the same with altruism
- Evoking change talk: Drawing out the person's own reasons for addressing altruism
- Affirming strengths: Highlighting past capacities relevant to altruism recovery
MI in Altruism Treatment Settings
MI is integrated into many altruism treatment approaches as an engagement tool. It's particularly useful at the beginning of treatment and when motivation fluctuates.