In Interpersonal Effectiveness, what are clients taught to prioritize?

In Interpersonal Effectiveness within Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), clients are taught to prioritize balancing their own needs with the needs of others. This approach emphasizes the importance of effective communication and relationship-building, enabling clients to express their needs and desires while also considering and respecting the perspectives and feelings of others.

The essence of this balance is rooted in the concept of validation, where acknowledging one’s own emotions and demands does not negate or diminish the significance of others' experiences. By helping clients find middle ground, DBT promotes healthier relationships and reduces conflict, ultimately fostering a sense of self-respect and mutual understanding.

This focus on balance distinguishes DBT from other models that may lean towards prioritizing one person's needs disproportionately over another's, which can lead to unhealthy dynamics and increased interpersonal conflict. Instead, this balanced perspective ensures that clients can advocate for themselves while also nurturing the relationships that are meaningful to them.