What is the purpose of reflecting feelings in communication?

Reflecting feelings in communication serves to inquire about how someone feels, which is essential for fostering a deeper understanding between individuals. This technique allows the communicator to convey empathy and validate the emotions being expressed by the other party. By acknowledging and reflecting back emotions, it encourages the speaker to share more, promoting a safe environment for open dialogue and support. This process not only helps in clarifying emotional responses but also strengthens interpersonal connections by showing that one is engaged and genuinely interested in the feelings and experiences of the other person.

Summarizing the conversation, asking questions for clarity, or providing solutions, while valuable in different contexts of communication, do not capture the essence of reflecting feelings, which is fundamentally about emotional acknowledgment and understanding.