CYC
A child is nervous at their first day of program.
What non-verbal immediacy behaviour could you use to help them feel comforted?
Smile, sit at their level, open posture
I can see you're upset
A worker remembers a youth's favorite hobby from a previous conversation.
Yes
What can crossed arms communicate?
Defensive
A youth says "nobody understands what I am going through"
What verbal immediacy would be most effective?
That sounds really difficult. Can you tell me more about it?
Sitting beside the youth
A worker sends a detailed email but never builds a relationship in person.
Not really
Why might too much eye contact be ineffective?
Could be intimidating
A child refuses to participate in a group activity and sits alone.
What is one immediate action you could take to build connection without forcing interaction?
Sit nearby, use open body language, engage casually.
Lets make a plan together
A worker uses a warm tone but interrupts frequently.
NO
True or False: Using someone's name is non-verbal immediacy
False
During a meeting, a teen gives only one-word answers and avoids eye contact.
Should you increase eye contact or focus on creating a comfortable environment first?
Focus on creating comfort and trust first.
Maintaining attention
A worker gives lots of praise but does not listen to concerns.
What is missing?
Authentic connection and engagement
What factor affects how immediacy behaviors are interpreted?
Culture
A youth becomes upset and says, "You don't care about me."
What combination of verbal and non-verbal immediacy would be most appropriate?
Calm tone, open posture, attentive listening, and a validating statement such as "I can see you're really upset, and I want to understand what's going on."
Which response builds the most connection when a youth says, "Nobody cares about me?"
"I can see you're really hurting right now. Can you tell me more about what's making you feel that way?"
A worker uses eye contact with one youth but avoids it with another due to cultural considerations.
Does this reduce immediacy?
NO it's respectful
A youth is angry and pacing. What non-verbal behavior should you avoid?
Invading their personal space or standing too close.