Which MI skill corresponds to actively acknowledging and reinforcing a client's strengths and efforts?

• A. Open questions
• B. Summaries
• C. Reflective listening
• D. Affirmations

Answer: (D)

Affirmations in Motivational Interviewing are about recognizing and reinforcing a client’s strengths and efforts. By naming specific strengths or successful efforts, you validate the client and boost their self-efficacy, helping to build confidence and motivation to keep moving forward. This approach directly supports change by reinforcing what the client is doing well and encouraging persistence.

Open questions are about inviting exploration, not specifically praising strengths. Summaries focus on distilling what has been said and may reflect content and meaning, but they’re not primarily about reinforcing strengths. Reflective listening mirrors what the client says and feels to show understanding, not specifically to reinforce abilities. For example, saying, “You’ve kept with your plan this week, and that shows real commitment,” directly acknowledges effort and capability, which is why this option best fits the prompt.