The righting reflex

Motivational Interviewing is introduced as a communication approach that can support physiotherapy by changing how practitioners respond to resistance. The main idea is that how something is said matters as much as the advice itself. Rather than taking the role of “fixer,” the practitioner learns to work alongside the person, seeing them first as someone with strengths rather than simply a patient with problems. The lecture uses a role-play with a frustrated man seeking pain relief for a slipped disc. In the demonstration, the practitioner relies on explanation, persuasion, and problem-solving too early. This creates tension and defensiveness, showing the “righting reflex” in action: the stronger the urge to correct or fix, the more resistance appears. Learners can expect an introduction to the spirit of Motivational Interviewing, including its collaborative mindset and its relevance beyond psychotherapy, including health, education, and sport. The session also sets up a contrast between unhelpful and more productive conversations, preparing for later examples of how to guide people toward expressing their own reasons for change.