What is the aim of the shifted reflection in Motivational Interviewing (MI)?

In Motivational Interviewing (MI), the aim of the shifted reflection is to encourage clients to discuss specific topics by directing their attention to different aspects of their experiences or feelings. This technique allows the coach to gently redirect the conversation, encouraging clients to think more deeply about their motivations and ambivalence regarding change. By focusing on salient issues, the coach can foster a more productive dialogue that helps clients articulate their thoughts and feelings.

Shifting the reflection can help illuminate areas where the client may have conflicting beliefs or feelings, which can lead to a more thorough exploration of their desires for change. This allows clients to better understand their motivations while also considering the challenges they face.

While options like emphasizing past decisions, highlighting both sides of an argument, or exploring alternative solutions play roles in MI, they do not specifically capture the essence of what shifted reflection is designed to do in terms of guiding the topic of conversation to promote deeper engagement and understanding.