Which listening technique is least effective when communicating with a victim of domestic violence?

Repeating what the victim says word for word is the least effective listening technique when communicating with a victim of domestic violence because it does not foster a sense of understanding or empathy. This method can come off as mechanical and may lead the victim to feel that they are not being genuinely heard or understood.

Victims of domestic violence often require a safe space where their feelings and experiences can be acknowledged and validated. Simply parroting their words fails to engage with the emotional depth behind their statements and may increase feelings of frustration or isolation. In contrast, techniques such as actively nodding to acknowledge emotions, asking clarifying questions to demonstrate engagement, and reflecting on the emotions expressed provide a much richer interaction. These approaches encourage a more supportive dialogue, making it more likely for the victim to feel safe, understood, and validated in their experiences.