Impact of motivational interviewing on service users - a systematic review

Purpose: This systematic review was undertaken to determine the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI), by social workers, on service user outcomes. Methods: A literature search was undertaken between 2007 and 2018. All eligible studies were analysed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool. As heterogeneity was high a narrative synthesis approach was employed, using thematic analysis for categorising data. Results: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. MI had a positive effect on service user experience, but this was not consistent. Training was variable but the evidence suggests that practitioner’s need on-going training, supervision or coaching whilst providing MI. Discussion: There was a paucity of research examining the impact of MI on children, which was a limitation of this review. There is a need for more qualitative research to surface views and experience of service users to determine why MI is effective.