The article emphasizes that while well-intended, advice can often feel dismissive to those experiencing infertility grief. Probing questions may inadvertently exacerbate feelings of shame or reopen emotional wounds. The author suggests that simply being present and practicing high-quality listening can provide more meaningful support than attempting to offer solutions. Context and timing are critical in understanding the impact of advice, making it essential to approach conversations with sensitivity, particularly when dealing with loss or grief surrounding infertility.
Advice may feel dismissive during infertility grief, even when well-intended. Probing questions may unintentionally reopen wounds or cause shame.
Active listening becomes even more important when a loved one is facing something emotionally layered like infertility.
The difference between helpful and harmful advice often isn't the intent - it's the context, the timing, and the emotional weight of the moment.
Research supports this. In one study, people who received active listening responses felt significantly more understood than those who received advice or simple acknowledgments.
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