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