Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as a supporting form of communication between a child with multiple disabilities and a therapist

Abstract

The article characterizes the assumptions of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), developed by Marshall Rosenberg, as an approach supporting the building of a therapeutic relationship with a non-verbal child with multiple disabilities. NVC – based on empathy, observation without judgment, and the identification of needs – can serve as both a communication method and an ethical foundation for therapeutic work.

The following research methodology was applied: (1) Individual case study method. Techniques such as document analysis (e.g., IPET) were used. (2) Participant observation and interviews with the therapist and the child’s mother. The research was conducted in the context of individual teaching at the child's home, which provided a sense of security and predictability. The research results clearly indicate that the consistent application of NVC principles is crucial for shaping the therapist–child relationship: (1) Observation without judgment (“I see you moved the card away” instead of “you are not cooperating”) reduced tension and allowed the child to make an autonomous decision about returning to the activity. (2) Naming feelings and needs by the therapist (e.g., “you need a rest”) – in response to gestures, vocalizations, or simple choices within AAC systems (e.g., pictograms for “drink”, “rest”) – strengthened the sense of being understood and significantly reduced difficult behaviors. (3) Formulating requests instead of demands (inviting to activity and offering a choice) enhanced the sense of agency and motivation to communicate. The study confirms that an empathetic and responsive attitude of the therapist, integrated with simple forms of AAC, enables the construction of an authentic dialogue based on trust and respect for the child's subjectivity.