New Books in Psychology E. Summerson Carr, "Working the Difference: Science, Spirit, and the Spread of Motivational Interviewing" (U Chicago Press, 2023)
Oct 14, 2023
E. Summerson Carr, an Associate Professor at the University of Chicago, delves into motivational interviewing (MI), a powerful behavioral therapy originally designed for treating addiction. She shares her transformative journey from anthropology to social work, emphasizing MI's shift in client relationships. Carr critiques MI's American roots and its global spread, exploring the complexities of training and state mandates. Additionally, she highlights the intriguing role of facility dogs in enhancing communication in health services.
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Carr's Career Trajectory
- E. Summerson Carr's interest in social justice led her to a PhD program combining social work and anthropology.
- Her dissertation research focused on an addiction treatment program for homeless women, shifting her focus to the anthropology of social work.
Shifting from Denial to Ambivalence
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) shifts from "denial" to "ambivalence" in addiction treatment.
- This changes the professional's role from confirming a known truth to collaboratively exploring and understanding the problem.
Defining Motivational Interviewing
- MI is difficult to define, encompassing aspects of Rogerian therapy, behavioral therapy, and evidence-based practice.
- It's a disciplined conversation style with specific techniques and a focus on client self-discovery.
