What is the difference between reflection and mirroring in communication?
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The terms "reflection" and "mirroring" in communication refer to two different techniques used to build rapport and understanding between individuals engaging in a conversation.
Reflection is a communication technique where one person listens to what the other says and then repeats or paraphrases the message to show that they have listened and understood. It's often used in counselling or conflict resolution settings to demonstrate empathy, validate the speaker's feelings, or clarify what has been said. Reflection helps the speaker feel heard and can facilitate a deeper exploration of their thoughts and feelings.
Mirroring, on the other hand, involves subtly matching the body language, tone of voice, or verbal expressions of the person you are communicating with. It doesn't involve repeating or paraphrasing what the other person has said, but rather aligning your nonverbal cues with theirs to create a sense of rapport and trust. For example, if the person you are talking to leans forward, you might do the same, or if they speak at a certain pace, you might adjust your speaking speed to match theirs. This form of mimicry can signal agreement or affinity without the use of words.
While both techniques can be useful for developing a connection with another person and facilitating effective communication, reflection focuses on the content of the conversation, and mirroring is about matching the style of interaction.
Extra: Reflection and mirroring are part of the broader subject of communication skills, which are crucial for personal and professional success. Effective communication helps in understanding others and in being understood. Both skills are particularly valuable in roles that require a high degree of interpersonal interaction, like teaching, sales, management, counselling, and any customer service position.
Reflection in communication is also a key part of active listening, which means fully concentrating on what is being said rather than just passively 'hearing' the message of the speaker. Reflection signifies that the listener is paying close attention and also checks for understanding, which can prevent misunderstandings.
On the other hand, mirroring can be linked to subtle aspects of nonverbal communication. People often mirror each other's body language when they have a good rapport, and it can occur naturally amongst friends or people in agreement. However, it's also a skill that can be consciously developed and employed in conversations to enhance connectivity and communication effectiveness.
A key point for students to remember is that while these techniques can be very powerful, they should be used with sincerity. Overuse or very obvious mirroring can come off as mocking or insincere, potentially undermining the rapport you're trying to build, whereas reflective listening should not distract from the flow of conversation but rather contribute to it.