In motivational interviewing, which stance is appropriate for a peer supporter?

• A. Confront issues
• B. Provide authoritative directives
• C. Listen and support
• D. Demand immediate change

Answer: (C)

Listening and providing support reflects the client-centered, nonjudgmental stance at the heart of motivational interviewing. A peer supporter using this approach collaborates with the person, showing empathy and accepting their situation, which helps them feel understood and safe to explore their own reasons for change. This stance lowers defensiveness, respects autonomy, and invites the person to articulate ambivalence and personal goals, making it more likely they’ll voice their motivation and plan for change. In contrast, confronting issues, issuing authoritative directives, or demanding immediate change tends to increase resistance and undermine the person's sense of control, which MI aims to avoid. So the best fit is to listen and support, guiding with empathy and collaborative exploration rather than pressure or control.