The clinical conversation has an outer, middle and inner layer or circle. Which of the following statements about circles of conversation is TRUE?
A)It is important that the clinician use questions to quickly enter into the inner circle of information gathering.
B)Outer circle exploration often focuses on information; middle circle exploration may elicit complicated feelings and meanings.
C)Levels of conversation and exploration are discrete and follow one after the other.
D)Unless the clinician and client move to inner circle conversation, they won't be able to get important work done.
E)All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Outer circle exploration typically focuses on factual information such as medical history or presenting problem, while middle circle exploration may involve complicated feelings and meanings related to the illness or health issue. It is not necessarily important for the clinician to use questions to quickly enter the inner circle, as the conversation may naturally progress there as trust and rapport are built. The levels of conversation are not necessarily discrete and do not always follow a linear progression. While inner circle conversation may be important for some aspects of treatment or therapy, it is not always necessary for all clinical goals.

The Clinical Conversation Has an Outer, Middle and Inner Layer