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