Effects of Supervisor Style on the Learning of Empathy in a Supervision Analogue

Abstract

Effects of supervisor style (techniques‐oriented, counseling‐oriented, and placebo‐oriented) and the presupervision conditions of audio modeling versus no modeling were examined in a supervision analogue. Six groups of 18 trainees heard three sets of recorded client statements and responded as counselors. Supervised groups had two 15‐minute conferences with supervisors between sets 1 and 2 and between sets 2 and 3. Control groups received no supervision. Among supervised groups only those trainees receiving the techniques‐oriented supervision showed significant improvement in rated level of empathy. Significant learning effects from the presupervision use of audio modeling were also found.