Communication
What is the difference between hearing someone and actively listening?
Hearing is simply noticing words; active listening involves understanding, asking questions, and responding intentionally.
Name ten healthy coping skills.
Walking, journaling, music, drawing, deep breathing, talking to someone, TIPP, reading, meditation, etc.
Why can saying “yes” too often damage a relationship?
It can lead to resentment, burnout, or unclear boundaries.
Why is the easiest choice not always the best choice?
It may solve the immediate problem but create bigger long-term consequences.
You accidentally offend a friend. What’s the healthiest first response?
Listen, apologize sincerely, ask how to repair the situation, and avoid becoming defensive.
During a disagreement, someone says, “You’re always so dramatic.” What communication barrier is this?
Criticism, labeling, or making absolute statements (“always”/“never”).
What’s the difference between reacting and responding?
Reacting is impulsive; responding involves thinking before acting.
A friend becomes upset every time you spend time with someone else. What unhealthy dynamic could this represent?
Possessiveness, emotional dependence, or controlling behavior.
Name three factors you should consider before making a major decision.
Risks, benefits, values, consequences, goals, and who is affected.
A group of friends is gossiping about someone who isn’t there. What’s a healthy way to respond?
Change the subject, avoid participating, defend the absent person respectfully, or leave the conversation.
Why can body language have a greater impact than words during communication?
People often trust nonverbal cues more than spoken words when the two don’t match.
What are three physical signs of stress?
Headaches, tense muscles, sweating, upset stomach, racing heart.
What’s the difference between setting a boundary and trying to control someone?
A boundary focuses on your behavior; control focuses on changing someone else’s behavior.
What is the difference between a reason and an excuse?
A reason explains behavior; an excuse avoids responsibility.
You fail an important test despite studying. What’s the most productive next step?
Reflect on study strategies, seek help, adjust your approach, and try again.
A friend leaves your text on read. List three possible explanations besides “They’re mad at me.”
Busy, forgot to reply, phone died, overwhelmed, asleep, distracted, poor service.
What is grounding?
A technique that helps bring your attention to the present moment.
Why is trust difficult to rebuild after it’s broken?
Trust depends on consistent actions over time, not just apologies.
Why should you evaluate advice before following it, even from someone you trust?
Their experiences, biases, or goals may differ from yours
You notice you’re becoming emotionally dependent on one person for all your happiness. What are two healthy ways to create balance?
Strengthen other relationships, pursue hobbies, practice self-care, and build independence.
What is confirmation bias?
Confirmation bias is the tendency to seek out, interpret, and recall information in a way that confirms one's existing beliefs or expectations.
Why might avoidance reduce anxiety in the short term but increase it over time?
Avoidance prevents learning that the situation is manageable, reinforcing fear.
Give an example of a healthy consequence after someone repeatedly ignores your boundary.
Spending less time with them, limiting personal information, or ending the interaction respectfully.
Which decision-making skill helps prevent acting impulsively when emotions are high?
Pausing, gathering information, considering long-term consequences, and consulting trusted supports.
A friend tells you they’re thinking about hurting themselves but asks you not to tell anyone. What should you do?
Take it seriously, tell a trusted adult or mental health professional immediately, and prioritize their safety over keeping the secret.