In Motivational Interviewing, what does the 'D' in DARN represent?

In the context of Motivational Interviewing, the 'D' in DARN stands for Desire. This concept revolves around understanding an individual's intrinsic motivations for change. In Motivational Interviewing, practitioners help clients articulate their desires related to behavior change, such as wanting to lose weight or improve their health. By emphasizing desire, the approach seeks to enhance the client’s awareness of their own motivations and aspirations.

Desire is a crucial component as it influences a person's readiness and willingness to pursue change. When clients express their desires, they clarify what they truly want to achieve, which can foster commitment and bolster their motivation to act towards those goals. This focus on personal motivation—rather than external pressures—ensures that changes made are more sustainable and aligned with the individual's values and life circumstances.