In order to best support clients as they move through pregnancy and birth, the doula needs to make the distinction between offering information and giving advice. Which communication strategy empowers the mother to make decisions that are best for her own family?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Providing information lets the mother know what her options are and allows her to make the decision for herself. When offering information, the doula uses phrases such as, "Research shows..." or "Many women have found...", and does not criticize the mother's ultimate decision. Identifying emotions as part of an active listening style should be used before giving information so that the most appropriate facts are shared and miscommunication is avoided. Advice, on the other hand, is telling another person what they should do, and implies a value judgment. It may send an unspoken message that the listener is not capable of making her own decisions, but needs to be told what to do. A doula should avoid advice-giving phrases like "you should...", "you ought to...", "you need to...", or "if I were you...".

In Order to Best Support Clients as They Move Through