Social Interest in Action — Clinician dialogue

Invite and obtain permission

Offer: "Would it be useful to explore social interest in action using an ordinary or fictional example? We can adapt it, observe, or stop." Ask what the person wants from the conversation.

Elicit before teaching

Ask: "How does this show up, if at all, in your own words?" Offer this idea tentatively: Contribution can include mutual care and receiving support. Ask what fits and what does not.

Guide the task

Design one small cooperative action that respects your energy and the other person's preferences. Ask for permission before giving an example. Use this fictional illustration if useful: Morgan offers to share transport planning rather than taking over everyone's arrangements.

Reflect and check accuracy

Reflect only what was offered: "I heard you describe ___. What did I miss?" Ask: How can contribution remain mutual? Avoid assigning motives or interpreting silence as agreement.

Respond to a mismatch

If the person rejects the frame, say: "Thank you for correcting it. What would be more useful?" Return to their language or choose a different approach.

Close with agency

Ask which observation, question, or support request the person wants to keep. Confirm a manageable ending and appropriate follow-up; do not turn a tentative possibility into a homework obligation.

Prompts for this resource

1. Readiness, permission, cultural context, and access needs to check:
2. How can contribution remain mutual?
3. What would tell me to adapt, stop, or seek supervision?