What are the objections, pains or criticisms of taking part in an empathy circle or to empathic reflection?
Too Structured
It feels to structured
This feels too rigid of a structure. It does not feel empathic, I just want to speak naturally.
Response
Drive To Speak
I want to speak when an idea comes up or I will forget it.
Response
one goal is to create a feeling of fairness, that each person will have time to express themselves without being interrupted
Awkward
This empathic listening feels awkward.
Response
Simplistic
This is like kindergarten, with this basic reflection.
Response
Insincere,
reflective listening can be perceived as insincere, (potentially violating one of Rogers’ core conditions of therapist congruence/authenticity)
Response
Parroting
This is just Parroting back.
Response
While beginning with practicing people may use a sort of parroting to get started.
Have patience as people learn and practice.
try to get better at conveying your understanding of the meaning the other person is expressing.
Not Being Heard
I speak and I don't really feel heard.
Even though people say they feel heard, they later say they do not feel heard
Response
Takes Too Long
.
Response
Not Empathic
This is not Empathic
Response
I feel like I'm not doing it right.
people have concerns that they are not doing a good job of reflecting or
Response
Stories Descriptions
Here are some actual stories or experiences that people shared about the Empathy Circles.
An Empathy Team Circle at Dave's Place
Dave, feels irritated when he hears a reflection back of what he is saying.
Terry liked the feeling of peacefulness that came up.
Edwin - wants a feeling of forward motion, next steps and and a sense of progress.