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