Question

A client is very hesitant to receive vaccinations. They tell you that their niece was diagnosed with autism shortly after receiving vaccinations as a child and they have read several online blogs claiming that a link exists between vaccines and autism. What would be the best way to use the motivational interview techniques of reflection and affirmation in this discussion?

"Well, in the end, it’s your choice. I can share the best information I have about vaccines, but you’re the one who decides."
"Can you tell me what you know about vaccines and autism?"
"You sound fairly sure that you don’t want to get vaccinated."
"I hear you have doubts. Considering your family experience and what you’ve read, I understand."

Answer 1

Answer: "I hear you have doubts. Considering your family experience and what you’ve read, I understand."

Why: This response uses reflective listening (“I hear you have doubts”) to acknowledge the client’s feelings and situation, and it validates/affirms those feelings by recognizing the legitimate reasons for concern (family experience, what they’ve read). It conveys empathy and keeps the conversation open without arguing or dismissing their concerns.

Brief notes on the others:
- "Can you tell me what you know…" is a good open question for eliciting information but isn’t reflection/affirmation.
- "You sound fairly sure…" is a reflection but risks sounding blunt or closing (it may make the client defensive).
- "Well, in the end, it’s your choice…" affirms autonomy but misses the chance to reflect and validate emotions.

Optional slightly polished phrasing you could use: “It sounds like you’re worried about a possible link between vaccines and autism given your niece’s experience — that makes sense and I’d like to hear more about what you’ve read.”