Question 1

Which of the following modes is most effective for responding to an empathic break?

Accepted Answer

Empathizing is the most effective mode for responding to an empathic break because it involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another, which is crucial in repairing the emotional disconnect or misunderstanding that characterizes an empathic break.

Question 2

Which of the following may not be an optimal approach to resolving an empathic break in therapy?

Accepted Answer

Citing evidence-based practice to defend your perspective may not be an optimal approach to resolving an empathic break in therapy because it can come across as defensive rather than understanding and validating the client's feelings and perspective.

Question 3

Which of the following is not one of the general guidelines for conflict resolution?

Accepted Answer

Using "you" statements often places blame and can escalate conflict, whereas using "I" statements to express how you feel is a recommended approach in conflict resolution.

Question 4

In an attempt to address your client's long-standing resistance toward your approach to intervention, you initiated the conflict resolution process by inviting the client to attempt to resolve the issue. You then proceeded by explaining the structure and the ground rules. If you were to follow the seven-step conflict resolution process defined by the Intentional Relationship Model (IRM), how would you proceed next?

Accepted Answer

Following the Intentional Relationship Model's seven-step conflict resolution process, after explaining the structure and the ground rules, the next step involves inviting the client to share his or her perspective on the issue. This approach ensures that the client feels heard and understood before moving forward with resolving the conflict.

Question 5

Empathic break is defined as a natural consequence of therapy that occurs when a therapist initiates a communication or behavior that is perceived by a client as hurtful or insensitive.

Accepted Answer

Empathic break refers to a disruption in the therapeutic relationship caused by the therapist's actions or words that the client perceives as insensitive or hurtful, leading to feelings of misunderstanding or alienation.

Question 6

Although an empathic break has the power to trigger uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, when managed correctly this interpersonal event may also strengthen the therapist's capacity to develop an empathic understanding of the client's needs.

Accepted Answer

An empathic break, when addressed and repaired appropriately, can deepen the therapeutic relationship by increasing mutual understanding and trust, thereby enhancing the therapist's ability to empathize with the client's experiences and needs.

Question 7

Confessing to a client that you may have made an empathic break because the client appears to be reacting differently in therapy will likely magnify an otherwise benign situation.

Accepted Answer

Acknowledging an empathic break can actually help repair the therapist-client relationship by demonstrating the therapist's attentiveness, willingness to take responsibility, and commitment to the client's well-being, potentially deepening trust rather than magnifying issues.

Quiz 13: Resolving Empathic Breaks and Conflicts