What do you do if your coworker's emotions are escalating during a Motivational Interviewing session?

1 Recognize Signs

The first step is to recognize the signs of emotional escalation. You might notice a change in body language, tone of voice, or facial expressions indicating that your coworker is becoming upset or agitated. It's important to stay calm and observant, as acknowledging these signs early can prevent further escalation. By being aware of these cues, you can tailor your approach to maintain a constructive and empathetic dialogue, which is at the heart of Motivational Interviewing.

2 Stay Calm

Once you've identified that emotions are running high, it's vital to remain calm yourself. Your composure can set the tone for the interaction and help de-escalate the situation. Use a soothing voice and open body language to convey that you are listening and empathetic. This non-confrontational stance is essential in Motivational Interviewing, as it helps to build trust and rapport, making it easier for your coworker to express their emotions without feeling judged or defensive.

3 Express Empathy

Expressing empathy is a core skill in Motivational Interviewing. When your coworker's emotions are escalating, demonstrate understanding and validate their feelings. This doesn't mean you agree with their perspective, but it shows respect for their experience. Reflective listening is a useful technique here; by paraphrasing what you've heard, you can show that you are trying to understand their point of view, which can help soothe heightened emotions.

4 Support Autonomy

In MI, supporting the individual's autonomy is crucial. Remind your coworker that they have the power to manage their emotions and reactions. Encourage them to take ownership of their feelings and reassure them that their perspective is important. This empowerment can help them feel more in control, reducing the intensity of their emotional response and fostering a more collaborative atmosphere.

5 Roll with Resistance

Resistance is a natural part of the change process, and it's important to roll with it rather than confront it directly. If your coworker's emotions are escalating because they feel challenged or cornered, step back and offer them space to express their concerns. By not opposing resistance, you adhere to the principles of Motivational Interviewing, allowing for a more fluid conversation where your coworker doesn't feel the need to defend themselves aggressively.

6 Redirect Focus

Finally, if emotions continue to escalate despite your efforts, consider redirecting the focus of the conversation. This could involve shifting to a different topic that is less emotionally charged or taking a short break if necessary. The goal is to lower stress levels and return to a state where productive communication is possible. Remember, the purpose of Motivational Interviewing is to facilitate positive change, and sometimes a temporary step back is needed to move forward effectively.