What outcome does motivation interviewing aim for during tobacco cessation therapy?

Motivational interviewing is a client-centered counseling technique designed to enhance motivation and commitment to change. In the context of tobacco cessation therapy, the primary outcome of motivational interviewing is to guide clients through the process of making behavioral changes that can lead to quitting smoking.

This approach fosters an environment where clients can explore their feelings and ambivalence about smoking, which helps them identify their own reasons for wanting to change. By engaging in reflective listening and empathetic communication, practitioners encourage clients to articulate their motivations and develop personalized strategies for quitting. This is much more effective than simply providing information about health risks or assessing past smoking behaviors, as it focuses on the individual's unique circumstances and readiness to change.

While evaluating past smoking habits and informing clients about health risks can be part of the broader cessation process, they do not capture the essence of what motivational interviewing seeks to accomplish. It aims to empower clients rather than just push immediate cessation.