Blunt Empathy: Techniques for Delivering Unwanted News to Students in Higher Education

Advisors in higher education often deliver unwanted news to students on a variety of topics. This article highlights research regarding delivering unwanted news and results of a new study among three institutions in the western United States. This unique study sought to understand the frequency with which higher education advisors share unwanted news and categorize types of unwanted news given. For the purposes of this article, unwanted news is defined as information, whether expected or unexpected, that frustrates one’s progress toward a desired goal, or which may run contrary to positive self-concepts. Research indicates preferred methods for receiving unwanted news may be categorized according to type, context, and urgency level. Empathy, combined with increased awareness of varied student reactions and emotions, can diffuse negative responses and lead to more positive outcomes. Suggested advising techniques, grounded in positive psychology theory, may also facilitate opportunities for greater growth, resilience, and discovery by students.