What OARS stands for
OARS is a simple framework used in Motivational Interviewing: Open questions, Affirmations, Reflections and Summaries. It sounds straightforward, but used well it can completely change the tone of a conversation.
Many young people we support have become used to adults asking closed questions, giving instructions or moving quickly to consequences. OARS slows things down and creates a different experience: one where the young person is invited to think, not forced to defend.
Open questions
Open questions create space. Instead of asking, “Did you get angry?” we might ask, “What was happening for you just before things became too much?” The second question invites reflection rather than compliance.
For young people who are anxious or guarded, even open questions need to be used gently. Sometimes the best question is short, curious and low pressure.
Affirmations, reflections and summaries
Affirmations notice effort, values and strengths. Reflections show that the adult is listening. Summaries help organise the conversation and give the young person a sense of clarity.
Together, these skills communicate something powerful: “I am not here to win an argument with you. I am here to understand what matters, what is hard, and what might help.”
Why it fits The Baxter Project
OARS works especially well in our setting because the conversation does not feel clinical. A walk, a dog and a calm practitioner can make reflective conversation feel natural rather than formal.
The companion wellbeing dog lowers pressure. The practitioner uses the moment to build trust, notice strengths and support the young person to find their own reasons for change.
In your next conversation with a young person who is struggling to engage, notice how many of your questions are open vs closed. If you catch yourself asking a closed question — pause, and try converting it: "Did you find that difficult?" becomes "What was that like for you?"
The shift in conversation tone is often immediate.
Positive engagement creates positive relationships, and positive relationships create the conditions for change.
This is Part 2 of our Motivational Interviewing series. ← Read Part 1: Four Core Attitudes · Read Part 3: Change Talk →