Module 4. Interpersonal Effectiveness: (Discussion #7) THINK

DBTuesday is a series of posts where we explore skills and concepts from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

What is THINK

THINK is a skill you can use to reduce negative feelings toward others.

• Think
• Have empathy
• Interpretations
• Notice
• Kindness

Tips for using THINK

Think

• Consider the situation from the other person’s perspective
• Consider how the other person might understand your words and actions

Have empathy

• Consider how the other person might be feeling
• Allow yourself to feel some of their feelings

Interpretations

• Ask whether there might be multiple ways to interpret the situation
• Ask whether there might be alternative explanations for the other person’s behavior
• Try to consider at least one positive or neutral explanation of the situation

Notice

• Notice things that the other person might be doing to try to improve the situation
• Notice feelings, stressors, or problems that the other person might be struggling with that could influence their behavior

Kindness

• Be respectful
• Treat the other person as you would like to be treated

See also this post for ideas on reducing negative judgments.

Reflection

What is a situation where you are able to use THINK? How would you use it?

Sources:

https://sunrisertc.com/interpersonal-effectiveness/

https://www.mindsoother.com/blog/reducing-conflicts-with-the-think-skill