Listed below are 6 statements that use language that cultivates defensive communication climates. Following each statement listed below, write out an alternative statement that is more likely to build a supportive communication climate. Follow directions for the type of supportive language to use.

Example: Change evaluation to description.

EVALUATION: You are such a whiner.

DESCRIPTION: You seem to be making a lot of complaints lately.

1. Change certainty to provisionalism.

CERTAINTY: The right thing to do is crystal clear.

PROVISIONALISM:

2. Change strategy to spontaneity.

STRATEGY: Don't you owe me a favor from when I typed that paper for you last term?

SPONTANEITY:

3. Change evaluation to description

EVALUATION: You're acting very immaturely.

DESCRIPTION:

4. Change control orientation to problem orientation.

CONTROL ORIENTATION: I think we should move where I have the good job offer since I'll make a bigger salary than you anyway.

PROBLEM ORIENTATION:

5. Change superiority to equality.

SUPERIORITY: I can't believe you got yourself into such a dumb predicament.

EQUALITY:

6. Change neutrality to empathy.

NEUTRALITY: I don't want to get involved in your disagreement with your parents.

EMPATHY: