CRC Communication Techniques & Strategies 3

Question 1

A client describes using silence after their partner speaks as a way to show they are thinking. Their partner interprets this as indifference. What communication concept explains this gap?

Accepted Answer

Receiver distortion

Answer

Receiver distortion occurs when the message sent differs from the message received due to the listener's filters, assumptions, or context.

Question 2

Which questioning technique is most useful when a coach wants to help a client explore the impact of their communication style on their partner?

Accepted Answer

Circular questions

Answer

Circular questions invite clients to consider how their actions affect others and how others' responses loop back to influence them.

Question 3

When a coach uses the phrase 'It sounds like you felt invisible in that moment,' what technique are they demonstrating?

Accepted Answer

Empathic reflection

Answer

Empathic reflection mirrors the client's emotional experience back to them, demonstrating understanding and deepening the therapeutic alliance.

Question 4

A couple fights frequently via text message, which often leads to misunderstandings. What communication principle explains why text is particularly prone to conflict escalation?

Accepted Answer

Text lacks tone, facial expression, and timing cues that reduce ambiguity

Answer

Text communication strips away the nonverbal and paralinguistic cues that typically provide emotional context and prevent misinterpretation.

Question 5

What is 'bids for connection' as described in Gottman's research, and why is the response to them important?

Accepted Answer

Verbal or nonverbal attempts to gain attention or affection; responses build or erode trust

Answer

Bids are any attempt a partner makes to connect emotionally; turning toward bids consistently builds the emotional bank account and relationship security.

(CRC) Certified Relationship Coach Practice Test

(CRC) Certified Relationship Coach Practice Test

CRC Communication Techniques & Strategies 3