To diminish a client's resistance the worker would?

• A. Acknowledge the client's ambivalence about accepting help.
• B. Confront the client to force acceptance of treatment.
• C. Avoid discussing barriers to help.
• D. Impose a strict treatment schedule without client input.

Answer: (A)

Acknowledging the client's ambivalence about accepting help reduces resistance by validating mixed feelings and inviting discussion rather than prompting defensiveness. When a client is torn between change and staying the same, an empathic acknowledgment signals respect for their autonomy and creates a safe space to explore concerns, fears, and values. This approach aligns with motivational interviewing principles, which aim to elicit change talk by partnering with the client and supporting their self-directed decisions. By reflecting ambivalence and inviting conversation, the worker helps the client move from resistance to collaboration, increasing the likelihood of engagement and gradual commitment.

Confronting the client to force acceptance tends to trigger defensiveness and power struggles, making it harder for the client to consider change. Avoiding discussion of barriers leaves practical and emotional obstacles unaddressed, which can stall progress and undermine trust. Imposing a strict treatment schedule without client input violates autonomy and is likely to diminish motivation and adherence.