# A client who smokes says, "I know smoking is bad, but I am not ready to quit." Which response uses motivational interviewing?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=394172&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Health Promotion/Disease Prevention  
> category: HPM

## Question

A client who smokes says, "I know smoking is bad, but I am not ready to quit." Which response uses motivational interviewing?

## Option

1. You must quit today or treatment will not work.
2. There is nothing to discuss until you decide to quit.
3. What do you like about smoking, and what concerns do you have about it? **✔ Correct answer**
4. I will schedule you for surgery to stop smoking.

**Correct answer: 3**

## Explanation

Motivational interviewing explores ambivalence using open-ended questions, reflection, and respect for autonomy. Asking about perceived benefits and concerns invites discussion without judgment. Threats, dismissal, or unrealistic interventions are not therapeutic.

## In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Behavior change starts with readiness and ambivalence, not pressure.

Memory Tip
Ask, listen, reflect.

## Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
Smoking cessation counseling can include motivational interviewing, pharmacotherapy options, follow-up, and referral to quit resources.

Caution
Respect for autonomy improves engagement.

## Key concepts

- **Motivational Interviewing** — A counseling approach that explores ambivalence and supports behavior change.
- **Ambivalence** — Having mixed feelings about changing a behavior.
- **Autonomy** — The person's right and capacity to make choices.

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