Reading Summaries : Principles of Supportive Communication

In the article “Principles of Supportive Communication”, published by Developing Management Skills, the author, Rogers, states that supportive communication should be problem-oriented rather than person-oriented. Instead of focusing on a person’s characteristics, supportive communication should focus on the behaviour which would cause the certain problem. Rogers mentions that to have the best interpersonal communication, it is important to ensure congruence when communicating. This means that it is necessary to make sure that what is felt is also delivered.

Supportive communication should be more descriptive compared to being evaluative. As evaluative communication comes off as being judgmental and offensive at times, this can cause arguments and weakening of the interpersonal relationship. Descriptive communication reduces defensive interaction as it becomes more objective which is based on the specific event, behaviour or circumstance. The focus is zoomed in on behaviours and reactions instead of the individual’s characteristics. Invalidating communication generates negativity in each individual’s self-worth, identity, uniqueness and most importantly denies their presence. Through validating communication, the involvement of two-way communication allows people to feel recognized, understood, accepted and valued, that their opinions are appreciated even in the worst case scenarios.

A clear supportive communication is necessary for better understanding of the opposite party. A blunt supportive communication contains extremes and absolutes which will only lead to pressure and confusion. Conjunctive communication allows flow in instruction and explanation. Only in cases like lack of equal opportunities or change in direction during a conversation should there be disjunction.

Supportive communication is all about personal rather than relative as the source of the ideas belongs to oneself instead of others. Lastly, Rogers also states that listening and responding effectively to someone else’s statement is as important as delivering a supportive message.

Completed along with: Rati, Ya Wen, Marcus