ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

Which motivational interviewing principle emphasizes collaboration between the client and coach?

1. Confrontation

2. Evocation

3. Collaboration

4. Autonomy

The correct answer is: Collaboration

The principle that emphasizes collaboration between the client and coach in motivational interviewing is centered on the concept of working together as partners in the change process. Collaboration involves establishing a trusting and respectful relationship where both the client and the coach contribute to discussions about goals, challenges, and solutions. Collaboration ensures that the client feels heard and valued, promoting a sense of ownership over their journey. This approach fosters a supportive environment where the client is more likely to engage in the process of self-discovery and to express their thoughts and feelings openly. In motivational interviewing, collaboration is critical as it facilitates open communication, enhances rapport, and increases the likelihood of effective behavior change by aligning the coaching strategies with the client’s own values and motivations. This principle differentiates itself from other concepts in motivational interviewing, such as confrontation, which may be more adversarial, and autonomy, which focuses on the client's independence. Evocation, while important, is about drawing out the client's own motivations rather than emphasizing the collaborative relationship directly. Hence, the focus on collaboration is key to creating a successful and productive coaching dynamic.