LACE – Using Empathy Assertively
This information handout introduces 'LACE' – a structured approach that supports empathic assertive communication.
LACE – Using Empathy Assertively
This LACE – Using Empathy Assertively explains how you can use empathy to enhance assertive communication.
Overview
Combining assertive messages with additional ‘considerations’ or ‘elaborations’ (such as acknowledging the other person’s experience) can enhance how assertive communication is perceived. LACE is a framework that helps clients strike a balance between empathy for others and assertive self-expression ('empathic assertion'). It describes how to incorporate understanding and acknowledgment into assertive messages. Clients will find this script particularly helpful when the relationship with the other person is important, when they want to nurture that relationship, or if there is a risk that the recipient might feel hurt or offended.
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