ABSTRACT
47We believe that validation is a critical dimension of communication in all interpersonal interactions, and supervision is no exception. The act of validating, particularly within the context of interpersonal communication, is a means of extending legitimacy, corroboration, or validity to that which is expressed. With regards to conflictual communication, the act of validation provides a pathway for conversants and “combatants” alike to find common ground. In our view, validation is a crucial skill for supervisors to master and for supervisees to learn. The supervisor’s use of validation allows for greater adherence to a Multicultural Relational Perspective (MRP) by adopting (a) a strengths-based approach to trainees’ growth and development and (b) supporting a Both/And perspective.
