ABSTRACT
In general, communication skills training are a common component of most relational treatments. A primary technique used within this type of training is known as the speaker–listener (SL) technique. A commonly used example of SL can be seen in the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program. Most behavioral couple therapy programs use some variation of SL. The SL technique is a set of skills and procedures that practitioners can teach partners when approaching conflict discussions. In its simplest form, SL involves the act of one person serving in the role of the speaker while another person serves in the role of the listener. Unlike most instances in which SL is used, the goal of this technique is not to move toward increased communication. The goal of SL with the cases is for the therapist to teach effective communication in order for the dyad to communicate when necessary and allow them to manage conflicts and negotiate child-related issues more successfully.
