Final answer:
The nurse is using the communication technique known as making observations by commenting on the patient's non-verbal cue, which is frowning, to invite discussion about the patient's feelings towards their family relationship.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse is using the communication technique of making observations. This technique involves noticing and articulating non-verbal cues or behaviors that the patient exhibits, which can provide insight into their emotions or thoughts about a topic. By commenting on the patient's frown, the nurse is not interpreting the meaning of the frown or clarifying anything; she is simply stating her observation without assigning value or intent. Thus, this is a reflective listening technique that invites the patient to address and elaborate on what might be concerning them regarding their family relationship.