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Navigating high conflict conversations with the loop of understanding
High conflict conversations are emotionally charged, often leading to a breakdown in communication. The loop of understanding is a valuable tool to navigate these conversations effectively. It involves three steps: asking a deep question, paraphrasing the response in your own words, and confirming if you understood correctly. This technique helps demonstrate active listening and a genuine desire to understand the other person's perspective, thus transforming the dialogue positively. Research on marriage counseling highlights the detrimental effect of trying to control the conversation or the other person during conflicts. When individuals feel attacked or anxious, they tend to exert control by influencing the other person's thoughts, emotions, or behaviors. However, this control dynamic can escalate tension and lead to toxic interactions. Recognizing and refraining from the urge to control others during conversations is essential for fostering healthier communication patterns.