As trust builds, the patient becomes more receptive to practitioner information and teaching. Once the initial desire for a relationship is established, the practitioner's goal is to reach a level beyond the surface relationship. This goal is reached by the practitioner taking a risk with the relationship by probing more deeply in an area that has been suggested by the parent but which may be uncomfortable for the parent. Parents throw out numerous clues during an interview which can help the practitioner know where to probe. If the parent chooses to respond to the probe, a response of acceptance and affirmation from the practitioner allows the trust in the relationship to deepen.
Human beings consider change if they feel supported and accepted.
The practitioner's message about change for the parent-child relationship can better be heard if the parent trusts that the practitioner has her interests at heart as well as the child's. Finally, the practitioner's responsibility in the relationship is to affirm the parent. Affirmation is accomplished with a nod, a light touch, a furrowed brow, eye contact and actively listening. Above all, listening. This is not a time for the practitioner to share his or her own personal experience in a similar situation.