III. Deportment: Interview Skills

Reflections

Resistance to change is a common human trait and should be expected. Reflections are extremely effective techniques against resistance because they let someone know that they are being listened to and understood. Indeed, this may be the first time in an offender's experience with the criminal justice system that their comments were not brushed aside or ignored.

This empathetic listening decreases defensiveness and open lines of communication between staff and offenders. It is important, however, that staff not sympathize with offenders in any way. Staff merely shows that they are attentive and willing to help.

There are three types of reflections: simple, double sided and amplified.