Deck 13: Resolving Empathic Breaks and Conflicts

Question 1

Which of the following modes is most effective for responding to an empathic break?

A) Advocating
B) Collaborating
C) Encouraging
D) Empathizing
E) Instructing
F)Problem-solving

Answer 1

Empathizing

Question 2

Which of the following may not be an optimal approach to resolving an empathic break in therapy?

A) Do more listening than talking.
B) Make summary statements regarding the other's perspective.
C) Cite evidence-based practice to defend your perspective.
D) Show your concern.

Answer 2

Cite evidence-based practice to defend your perspective.

Question 3

Which of the following is not one of the general guidelines for conflict resolution?

A) Cope in order to retain perspective and emotional control.
B) Avoid any need to be right or to win the argument.
C) Use "you" statements to explain your perspective on what happened.
D) Do more listening than talking.

Answer 3

Use "you" statements to explain your perspective on what happened.

Question 4

In an attempt to address your client's long-standing resistance toward your approach to intervention, you initiated the conflict resolution process by inviting the client to attempt to resolve the issue. You then proceeded by explaining the structure and the ground rules. If you were to follow the seven-step conflict resolution process defined by the Intentional Relationship Model (IRM), how would you proceed next?

A) Ask the client if he or she is willing to listen to your perspective.
B) Invite the client to share his or her perspective on the issue.
C) Summarize your perspective and understanding of the situation.
D) Collaboratively problem-solve possible solutions to the issue.

Question 5

Empathic break is defined as a natural consequence of therapy that occurs when a therapist initiates a communication or behavior that is perceived by a client as hurtful or insensitive.

Question 6

Although an empathic break has the power to trigger uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, when managed correctly this interpersonal event may also strengthen the therapist's capacity to develop an empathic understanding of the client's needs.

Question 7

Confessing to a client that you may have made an empathic break because the client appears to be reacting differently in therapy will likely magnify an otherwise benign situation.