Communication Skills
How do you show someone you are listening to them?
Active listening- eye contact, nodding, asking questions, responding, do not interrupt, don't judge.
What are boundaries in relationships?
Boundaries are personal rules that tell others what's okay and what's not okay in a relationship. We need them to keep ourselves safe, respected, and comfortable with others.
Can you use "I" statements to resolve conflict?
Yes
What is empathy?
Empathy is being able to know how someone else is feeling, even when you aren't in the same situation.
What are signs of a healthy relationship?
Trust, respect, and open communication.
What are some examples of non-verbal communication?
Facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, tone of voice, body language.
Ignoring your requests, pushing your limits, or making you feel uncomfortable.
What some ways to de-escalate a heated argument?
Taking deep breaths, stepping away to cool down, speaking in a calm tone, and avoiding aggressive or confrontational language.
They might have a change in facial expression, speak in a quieter tone, avoid eye contact, or withdraw from social interactions.
What are signs of an unhealthy relationship?
Controlling behavior, lack of respect, or constant criticism.
How can you start a conversation with someone you don't know well?
What are some types of boundaries people might set?
Physical, emotional, digital/online, and time boundaries.
When is it appropriate to walk away from conflict?
When emotions are too high, when there's a risk of harm, or when further discussion is unproductive. It's important to agree to revisit the conversation later in a calmer setting.
Can empathy help resolve conflicts?
Yes- Empathy allows you to understand the other person's feelings, which can reduce tension and lead to a more collaborative solution.
What are some ways trust can be built in a relationship?
Being honest, keeping promises, and respecting each other's boundaries.
How can you express your feelings without being defensive?
What is a respectful way to say "no" when someone asks you to do something you don't want to do?
"No thank you", "thank you for thinking of me but I can't", "it's not a good time for me right now", "I'm flattered, but I have to say no"....
What are some common causes of conflict?
Miscommunication, differing values or expectations, unmet needs, jealousy, and misunderstanding.
What is the difference between empathy and sympthy?
Empathy is understanding and sharing someone else's feelings, while sympathy is feeling pity or sorrow for their situation without necessarily sharing their emotions.
Is it important to respect differences in a relationship?
Yes- it allows both people to be themselves, and prevents conflict due to intolerance.
Why is it important to use "I" statements when expressing feelings?
It helps avoid blaming or accusing, without creating defensiveness.
What should you do if someone tells you that you're crossing their boundaries?
Listen carefully, apologize, and respect their limits in the future.
What are things someone can do to cause a conflict to become worse?
Yelling, interrupting, blaming, name-calling, and refusing to listen.
Why is empathy important in friendships?
Empathy helps friends support each other through good times and bad, building trust, connection, and a deeper understanding of one another.
When might it be necessary to end a relationship, and how should you do it?
The friendship involves drama, arguments, a lot of conflict, you don't enjoy spending time with the other person, you don't trust the other person...