What are decisional rulers used for in MI?

Decisional rulers are tools used in Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients articulate and visualize their readiness to change. This tool encourages clients to assess their own level of motivation and commitment to making desired changes in their lives. By using a decisional ruler, clients can express their feelings about their readiness on a scale, which facilitates deeper discussions around their motivation, ambivalence, and the specific factors influencing their willingness to pursue change.

This process not only clarifies where clients currently stand but also helps identify the areas where they may feel hesitant or need further support. It serves as a catalyst for conversations about the pros and cons of change, allowing for a more person-centered approach to discussing goals and strategies for improvement. Overall, it effectively engages clients in the MI process by focusing on their personal readiness and commitment levels.