Illustrate six ways to use language that will create a supportive rather than an antagonistic environment.

What will be an ideal response?

(1) Describe your own feelings rather than evaluate others. This can be accomplished by using "I" statements rather than "you" statements. (2) Solve problems rather than control others. If someone tells us what's good for us rather than helping us through a problem, we are likely to become defensive. (3) Empathize rather than remain detached from others. The ability to understand and feel what others are feeling demonstrates support. (4) Be flexible rather than rigid toward others. If someone perceives you as a person who always thinks they are right, they will be less likely to approach you in conversation. (5) Present yourself as equal rather than superior. You will antagonize others if they think you view yourself as superior to them. (6) Avoid gunny-sacking. Bringing up past issues when trying to resolve a current situation is not supportive and will make the other person feel attacked.