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