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The Efficacy of Motivational Interviewing (MI) for Substance Use Disorders: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Motivational Interviewing (MI) has gained prominence as a patient-centered approach to addressing substance use disorders (SUDs), aiming to enhance intrinsic motivation for behavior change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of MI in reducing substance use and improving treatment outcomes in individuals with SUDs. Through a comprehensive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of MI compared to control conditions (e.g., treatment as usual, psychoeducation, brief advice) in targeting substance use outcomes, including frequency, quantity, and severity of substance use, as well as treatment retention and engagement. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, therapist adherence to MI principles, patient readiness to change, and substance type, to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of MI for SUDs.
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References
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