4. Communicating Effectively with your Relative and Setting Limits

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Effective speaking


The DESC framework will help you speak specifically, positively and assertively:

Describe the situation:

“When you . . .” (behaviour)


Express your feelings:

“I feel . . .” (emotion)


Specify what you want:

“I would like/prefer . . .” (need or desire)


Communicate the consequences:

“I will . . .” (positive payoff)

 

“You will . . .” (positive payoff)


(Adapted from Bower, S. & Bower, A. (2004). Asserting Yourself: A Practical Guide for Positive Change. Cambridge, MA: Da Capo Press.)

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