Doing It Effectively

Worksheet Description

The DEARMAN worksheet is a concise tool used in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to equip students with the skills necessary for effective communication. It breaks down the DEARMAN acronym into its fundamental components: Describe, Express, Assert, Reinforce, Mindfulness, Appear confident, and Negotiate. Each section of the worksheet provides space for students to write down the specific skills they need to implement each step effectively. This setup encourages learners to think critically about the practical aspects of communication and what they can do to improve their interpersonal interactions.

In the “Describe” section, students contemplate how to objectively state the facts of a situation, while “Express” focuses on sharing emotions honestly. “Assert” is where students plan how to clearly state their needs. “Reinforce” prompts them to think of ways to acknowledge positive responses, and “Mindfulness” encourages concentration on the present conversation. “Appear confident” asks students to consider how to use non-verbal cues effectively, and “Negotiate” involves thinking about compromise and flexibility. This structured approach helps students to self-reflect on their communication skills and develop a clear strategy for engaging in constructive dialogue, enhancing their ability to navigate complex social situations.