Which term describes the use of clichés that downplay a patient's feelings?

• A. Brainstorming
• B. Reassuring clichés
• C. Cultural diversity
• D. Discrimination

Answer: (B)

In patient communication, it’s important to acknowledge and validate how someone feels rather than gloss over their emotions. The term that describes using clichés to downplay a patient’s feelings is reassuring clichés. These phrases are meant to comfort but can actually minimize what the patient is experiencing, which can make them feel misunderstood, less willing to share, and less trusting of the clinician. A more effective approach is to acknowledge the emotion and offer genuine support, for example by saying, “That sounds really hard; tell me more about how this is affecting you.” The other terms don’t fit because brainstorming is about generating ideas, cultural diversity refers to different backgrounds, and discrimination involves unfair treatment based on bias.