Which statement best supports motivational strategies in relation to readiness to change?

• A. Press for immediate change to demonstrate urgency.
• B. In motivational strategies, explore ambivalence and support gradual exploration of change.
• C. Use a fixed technique regardless of stage.
• D. Delay motivation until the maintenance stage.

Answer: (B)

Understanding readiness to change means recognizing that clients often feel ambivalent about changing, and motivation grows best when the counselor helps them explore both sides and supports small, gradual steps. This approach is central to motivational strategies because it meets clients where they are, respects their autonomy, and reduces defensiveness. By using open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations, you help clients articulate why they might change and what’s holding them back, which sharpens their own motivation and prepares them to move from thinking about change to taking concrete steps. Pushing for immediate change can trigger resistance, and applying a single technique regardless of stage ignores that people progress through stages at different speeds. Delaying motivation until the maintenance stage misses opportunities to build readiness early on.