Which statement describes the I-message technique and provides a relevant example?

• A. A narrative of past incidents with blame.
• B. A technique that assigns blame to others.
• C. A statement that expresses feelings without blaming others;
• D. A direct command to stop behavior.

Answer: (C)

Expressing your feelings without blaming others using I-statements is what this item is testing. An I-message describes how you feel and the effect of someone’s actions on you, without accusing or labeling the other person. For example: “I feel frustrated when meetings start late because I value punctuality and want to stay on track.” This kind of statement invites dialogue and cooperation rather than triggering defensiveness. It keeps the focus on your experience and needs, not on judging the other person. In contrast, statements that assign blame, accuse someone of causing harm, or issue a direct command shift the interaction away from your feelings and toward control or guilt, which doesn’t fit the I-message approach.