One of the four original principles of MI. The essence: help the client see the gap between their current behavior and what matters to them (values, goals, self-image). This creates inner discomfort — cognitive dissonance — which serves as fuel for change. The discrepancy must arise from the client's inner values, not from external pressure.
Step-by-step guide
- Explore the client's values through open questions: "What is most important to you in life?"
- Make sure the client has named the value in their own words
- Ask the linking question: "How does this relate to what is happening now?"
- Reflect the discrepancy without judgment
- Give the client space to notice the contradiction themselves
When to use
- When the client names important values but behaves at odds with them
- In work with addictions: values of health, family, career
- When changing lifestyle: health, relationships, professional growth
- In evoking — as a way to strengthen need-talk
Key phrases
You said that health matters to you. And how does what you are describing fit with that?
Follow-up questions
You want to be close to the children. How do you see that in relation to what is happening?
Alternative phrasings
What is most important to you? And how does the current situation fit into that?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not point out the contradiction directly — that triggers defense
- ⚠️ The discrepancy must be built only on the client's inner values, not yours
- ⚠️ Do not overuse the technique — constant emphasis on discrepancy is oppressive
Source: Miller & Rollnick, 1991, 2013
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.