What does the OARS model stand for in motivational interviewing?

The OARS model is a foundational framework utilized in motivational interviewing to enhance communication and foster a supportive environment for behavior change. It stands for Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, and Summarizing.

Open-ended questions are designed to encourage clients to express themselves more fully and share their thoughts and feelings, promoting a deeper dialogue. This technique helps gather more information and encourages clients to explore their motivations and concerns.

Affirmations are positive statements that acknowledge the client’s strengths, efforts, and progress. These can help boost the client's confidence and reinforce their sense of agency in the change process.

Reflections involve paraphrasing or mirroring what the client has said, demonstrating understanding and validating their feelings. This practice deepens the conversation and helps clarify the client’s thoughts, fostering a stronger therapeutic alliance.

Summarizing involves compiling the main points of the conversation, ensuring that both the client and practitioner are on the same page. This technique not only reinforces the client’s motivations and insights but also helps navigate the discussion forward.

By integrating these four components, practitioners can enhance engagement, build rapport, and facilitate meaningful dialogue, all of which are crucial in motivating clients toward positive change. The other options do not accurately represent the OARS model and contain elements