Question

Emily is having serious problems with her family. She is extremely distressed, so she asks you to come over to her house to talk about it. At one point in the conversation she says: "My family doesn't understand me. Everything I like seems to go against their values. Even though I know they love me, they don't accept me for who I am." Which of the following would be the most effective supportive response in this situation?

A. "Well, you know what they say. Families are like fudge-mostly sweet with a few nuts."

B. "I can see you're hurting right now. I'm sorry. I know how important your family is to you."

C. "I think what's really bothering you is that you feel they aren't respecting your choices."

D. "Don't worry. Everything will be alright."

E. "Why do you think they feel that way? Did you do something to offend them?"

Answer 1

It depends on what's distressing her really but I think the answer might be E. but maybe that's just me because I find questions comforting.

Answer 2

B. "I can see you're hurting right now. I'm sorry. I know how important your family is to you."

Step-by-step explanation:

Saying something that you're not sure about will not make someone feel better. They know when you can't know something. So don't tell them that it will be okay. Don't put the blame on the person also. They are in need of support, so you can't just tell them that things won't change or that they're the ones to blame. Just acknowledge the person's feelings so she can feel refreshed. People need to vent, to feel listened to, and to feel understood.