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