Ateneo Bulatao Center

Practicing Empathic Understanding

Have you ever wondered what else you can do to help a friend who has a problem? Take a look at these simple non-verbal ways you can show you are actively listening.

 

1. Maintain eye contact.

2. Mirror the volume and the rate of their voice.

3. Have a relaxed posture and lead forward from time to time.

4. Nod your head to show your interest in their problem.

 

Now try pairing it with the empathic verbal strategies!

 

Paraphrase: Restate what your friend has mentioned while focusing on the main content of what they have said.

 

Echo: After listening to your friend, repeat some of the words your friend has told you back to them.

 

Reflect: Repeat what your friend said including their emotions and try to match their tone of voice and facial expression.

Keywords: Empathy; Support; Friends

OTHER ARTICLES

MANAGING DISAPPOINTMENTS IN QUARANTINE

With many goals and expectations affected by this pandemic, feeling disappointment may be common for students. Some may be feeling discouraged with their performance in their online classes. Some may...

Read More