Sometimes, clients will argue in favor of continuing with the problem behavior rather than stopping or replacing it. According to the motivational interview approach to therapy, this client behavior is labeled ______.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This client behavior is labeled sustain talk, as they are arguing in favor of sustaining the problem behavior. Rolling with resistance is when the therapist accepts the client's resistance rather than confronting it. Change talk is when the client expresses a desire, ability, reason, or need for change. Developing the discrepancy is when the therapist helps the client explore the discrepancy between their current behavior and their values or goals.

Sometimes, Clients Will Argue in Favor of Continuing with the Problem