Which of the following best describes the difference between an 'I' statement and a 'You' statement in the context of emotional communication?

• A. 'I' statements are more likely to escalate conflict, while 'You' statements help to resolve disagreements.
• B. 'I' statements are only used in formal settings, while 'You' statements are used in informal conversations.
• C. 'I' statements are used to give instructions, while 'You' statements are used to share personal emotions.
• D. 'I' statements express the speaker's own feelings and experiences, while 'You' statements focus on blaming or criticizing the listener.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that 'I' statements and 'You' statements are communication tools used to express emotions and address conflicts.
2. Recognize that 'I' statements focus on the speaker's own feelings and experiences, which helps to communicate personal emotions without blaming others.
3. Know that 'You' statements tend to focus on the listener's behavior and can come across as blaming or criticizing, which may escalate conflict.
4. Compare the effects of both: 'I' statements promote understanding and reduce defensiveness, while 'You' statements often provoke defensiveness and conflict.
5. Conclude that the key difference is that 'I' statements express the speaker's feelings, whereas 'You' statements focus on blaming or criticizing the listener.