{"id":266,"date":"2026-01-09T08:35:45","date_gmt":"2026-01-09T08:35:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/?post_type=content&#038;p=266"},"modified":"2026-08-21T09:25:24","modified_gmt":"2026-08-21T09:25:24","slug":"chapter-12","status":"publish","type":"content","link":"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/chapter-resources\/chapter-12\/","title":{"rendered":"<span>Chapter 12:<\/span> Communicating Comfort and Support"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-1 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#ce6857;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><nav style=\"--separator: &quot;\/&quot;\" class=\"wp-block-breadcrumbs\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\"><ol><li><a href=\"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/\">Home<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/chapter-resources\/\">Chapter Resources<\/a><\/li><li><span aria-current=\"page\"><span>Chapter 12:<\/span> Communicating Comfort and Support<\/span><\/li><\/ol><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><h2 style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"alignwide wp-block-post-title has-large-font-size\"><span>Chapter 12:<\/span> Communicating Comfort and Support<\/h2>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One vital function served by interpersonal communication is the provision of comfort and support. This chapter examines the nonverbal and verbal messages people use to provide support in various forms. How comforting unfolds through the back-and-forth exchange of messages between partners is described, as well as the role of support-seekers in this process and differences across cultures. When significant stressors emerge, such as a cancer diagnosis or the death of a loved one, supportive communication can provide important resources, improve people\u2019s emotional state, bolster self-confidence, or connect people with other sources of help. Throughout the chapter, recommendations for improving the communication of support and comfort are provided.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-4805a82d wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4805a82d wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_HDYR.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:4px;border-top-right-radius:4px;border-bottom-left-radius:4px;border-bottom-right-radius:4px;width:40px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_HDYR.jpg 200w, https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_HDYR-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"aioseo-how-do-you-rate-15\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Do You Rate?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-a788f6d8 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#faf2d4;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<p class=\"alignwide wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Try the interactive activity below, or download the form for an accessible and printable version.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons alignwide is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fse-isr-plus-2025-flat-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/HDYR-chapter12.zip\" style=\"background-color:#e4bca3;padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">Download all <em>How Do You Rate?<\/em> assessment forms (zip 67KB)<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"aioseo-hdyr-scale-12-1-preferences-for-types-of-support-13\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">HDYR Scale 12.1: Preferences for Types of Support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-431b1423 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#f1f5f6;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-black-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-2 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-2a973b5d wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:-25px;margin-bottom:-25px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<h3 id=\"aioseo-multiple-choice\" class=\"wp-block-heading has-extra-small-font-size\">Questionnaire<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#d5e3fa;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">The content for this section has not been posted yet and is coming soon.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"aioseo-hdyr-scale-12-2-support-for-bereavement-19\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">HDYR Scale 12.2: Support for Bereavement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-431b1423 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#f1f5f6;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-black-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-3 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-2a973b5d wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:-25px;margin-bottom:-25px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<h3 id=\"aioseo-multiple-choice\" class=\"wp-block-heading has-extra-small-font-size\">Questionnaire<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#d5e3fa;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">The content for this section has not been posted yet and is coming soon.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4805a82d wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_CIA.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-46\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:4px;border-top-right-radius:4px;border-bottom-left-radius:4px;border-bottom-right-radius:4px;width:40px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_CIA.jpg 200w, https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_CIA-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"aioseo-communication-in-action-27\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Communication In Action<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fse-isr-plus-2025-flat-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/CIA-chapter12.zip\" style=\"background-color:#e4bca3;padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">Download all <em>Communication in Action<\/em> forms (zip 88KB)<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/CIA-12-2.docx\" title=\"CIA-12-2\">Download CIA Form 12.2: <em>Seeing Through Someone Else\u2019s Eyes<\/em> (docx 29KB)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/CIA-12-3.docx\" title=\"CIA-12-3\">Download CIA Form 12.3: <em>Seeking the Support You Want<\/em> (docx 27KB)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/CIA-12-4.docx\" title=\"CIA-12-4\">Download CIA Form 12.4: <em>Appreciating Culturally Diverse Comforting Needs<\/em> (docx 27KB)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/CIA-12-5.docx\" title=\"CIA-12-5\">Download CIA Form 12.5: <em>Different Types of Support<\/em> (docx 24KB)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4805a82d wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_CWT.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-47\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:4px;border-top-right-radius:4px;border-bottom-left-radius:4px;border-bottom-right-radius:4px;width:40px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_CWT.jpg 200w, https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon_CWT-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"aioseo-connect-with-theory-19\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Connect with Theory<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary><strong>Connect with Theory 12.1: The Theory of Conversationally-induced Reappraisal<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The theory of conversationally-induced reappraisal<\/strong> is based on the notion that people feel stressed or experience distress and negative emotions because of how they are thinking about a situation. While it would be great if people could change their circumstances, that isn\u2019t always an option (if you\u2019re stressed about an exam, you usually can\u2019t make the exam disappear). When eliminating a stressor isn\u2019t feasible, you might be able to cope or feel better by reappraising the stressor in less distressing ways. For example, you might think about how hard you studied for this test, the things you can do to prepare, or remind yourself that one exam won\u2019t determine your whole future. Changing how you see a situation can be hard on your own, and the theory of conversationally-induced reappraisal suggests that conversations with other people can help you. Thus, this theory focused on how supportive interactions change people\u2019s appraisal of a stressful situation so as to improve negative emotions. The theory claims that conversation facilitates cognitive reappraisal because it provides a space for distressed individuals to elaborate and explore their feelings, perspectives, and experiences. In the process of describing a problematic situation, people may be led to modify their goals, perceptions of the situation, and coping options. For example, Jones and Wirtz (2006) found that distressed individuals\u2019 verbalization of positive emotions during a supportive interaction led to cognitive reappraisal, which in turn improved their emotional state. Similarly, Afifi and colleagues (2019) observed that support providers who encouraged a friend to positively reframe the stressor were able to help reduce anxiety and negative thoughts. This theory, and the research testing it, suggests that people can cope with difficult circumstances by seeing their problem in a less negative light through interpersonal communication with other people.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>References and other suggested readings:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Afifi, T. D., Merrill, A., Davis, S., Denes, A., &amp; Coveleski, S. (2019). The impact of a need for closure and support quality on verbal and cognitive brooding. <em>Communication Research, 46<\/em>(6), 757\u2013784.<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177%2F0093650216644018\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0093650216644018\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0093650216644018<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Burleson, B. R., &amp; Goldsmith, D. J. (1998). How the comforting process works: Alleviating emotional distress through conversationally induced reappraisals. In P. A. Andersen, &amp; L. K. Guerrero (Eds.), <em>Handbook of communication and emotion<\/em> (pp. 245\u2013280). Academic Press.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Holmstrom, A. J. (2015). Emotional appraisal\/reappraisal in social support. In C. R. Berger &amp; M. E. Roloff (Eds.), <em>International encyclopedia of interpersonal communication. <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/9781118540190.wbeic058\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/9781118540190.wbeic058<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jones, S. M., &amp; Wirtz, J. (2006). How does the comforting process work? An empirical test of an appraisal-based model of comforting.<em> Human Communication Research, 32<\/em>(3), 217\u2013243.<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/j.1468-2958.2006.00274.x\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/j.1468-2958.2006.00274.x\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/j.1468\u20132958.2006.00274.x<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nozaki, Y., &amp; Gross, J. J. (2025). Bridging supportive communication and interpersonal emotion regulation: An integrative review. <em>Journal of Social and Personal Relationships<\/em>. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/02654075251335816\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/02654075251335816<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rains, S. A., &amp; High, A. C. (2021). The effects of person-centered social support messages on recipient distress over time within a conversation. <em>Journal of Communication, 71<\/em>(3), 380\u2013402. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/joc\/jqab010\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/joc\/jqab010<\/a> &nbsp; Youngvorst, L. J., &amp; Jones, S. M. (2025). An experimental test of mediated supportive communication and resulting outcomes. <em>Communication Research, 52<\/em>(3), 398\u2013424. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/00936502231206028\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/00936502231206028<\/a><\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary><strong>Connect with Theory 12.2: The Dual Process Model of Supportive Communication<\/strong><\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Multiple factors influence the outcomes of supportive interaction, including the content of the message (e.g., how appropriate, sensitive, and helpful the message is), characteristics of the helper (e.g., gender, credibility, relationship to the support recipient), the interactional context (e.g., physical setting, medium, the problem situation itself), and features of the recipient (e.g., personality traits, cognitive abilities). <strong>The dual process model of supportive communication <\/strong>provides a framework to understand how different elements of supportive interactions work together to affect support recipients\u2019 thinking, emotions, and behaviors. The model suggests that the amount of thought people give to supportive interaction influences support outcomes. When people are motivated and able to think about the support they receive, the quality of the support content matters a great deal. But, if people don\u2019t put much effort into processing social support, other heuristic cues play a more important role in supportive interaction, such as the attractiveness of the helper or the type of relationship between the helper and recipient. The model suggests that people are likely to experience long-lasting positive changes in emotion and behavior when they carefully process high-quality supportive messages (e.g., feeling less sad about the loss of a beloved pet). Temporary positive changes in emotion and behavior can occur when people rely on environmental cues in the situation to process social support (e.g., the presence of a close friend makes you feel better briefly). In general, this model provides useful guidelines for support provision. If you perceive that a friend is capable of thoughtfully processing information, offering longer and complex messages may be more effective than simple and short messages. In contrast, under conditions when a friend cannot carefully absorb information, giving short and straightforward supportive messages or simply being there may be just as helpful. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>References and other suggested readings: &nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bodie, G. D., &amp; Jones, A. C. (2015). Dual-process theory of supportive message outcomes. In C. R. Berger &amp; M. E. Roloff (Eds.), <em>International encyclopedia of interpersonal communication. <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/9781118540190.wbeic044\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/9781118540190.wbeic044<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bodie, G. D., &amp; MacGeorge, E. L. (2014). Supportive communication theories: Dual-process theory of supportive message outcomes and advice response theory. In D. O. Braithwaite &amp; P. Schrodt (Eds.), <em>Engaging theories in interpersonal communication: Multiple perspectives <\/em>(2nd ed., pp. 129\u2013141). SAGE.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Burleson, B. R. (2009). Understanding the outcomes of supportive communication: A dual-process approach. <em>Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 26<\/em>(1),21\u201338. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177%2F0265407509105519\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0265407509105519<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fang, Y. (2021). A dual process model of help-seeking on social media websites. <em>Communication Research, 48<\/em>(7), 978\u20131007. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0093650218824801\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0093650218824801<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Harvey-Knowles, J., &amp; Faw, M. H. (2018). Caregiver social support quality when interacting with cancer survivors: Advancing the dual-process model of supportive communication. <em>Supportive Care in Cancer, 26<\/em>(4), 12811\u2013288. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s00520-017-3951-x\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s00520-017-3951-x<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Peterson, A. M., &amp; Acevedo Callejas, M. L. (2021). Using dual-process theory and cues of identifiability to explain supportive exchanges on social question and answer sites. <em>Communication Quarterly, 69<\/em>(3), 301\u2013319. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/01463373.2021.1951790\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/01463373.2021.1951790<\/a>&nbsp; Rains, S. A., Brunner, S. R., Akers, C., Pavlich, C. A., &amp; Tsetsi, E. (2016). The implications of computer-mediated communication (CMC) for social support message processing and outcomes: When and why are the effects of support messages strengthened during CMC? <em>Human Communication Research, 42<\/em>(4), 553\u2013576. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/hcre.12087\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/hcre.12087<\/a><\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4805a82d wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"74\" height=\"74\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.routledgelearning.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/assets\/sites\/46\/icon-FLASH.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-409\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:4px;border-top-right-radius:4px;border-bottom-left-radius:4px;border-bottom-right-radius:4px;width:40px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"aioseo-flashcards-21\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flashcards<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<!-- Swiper -->\n<div class=\"swiper mySwiper\" id=\"swiper-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\">\n    <div class=\"swiper-wrapper\">\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Cold comfort\" data-back=\"Messages that provide limited consolation, sympathy, or encouragement in response to serious distress.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Cold comfort<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Messages that provide limited consolation, sympathy, or encouragement in response to serious distress.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Co-rumination\" data-back=\"A pattern of interaction in which partners take turns elaborating and amplifying their negative thoughts and feelings about a situation.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Co-rumination<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>A pattern of interaction in which partners take turns elaborating and amplifying their negative thoughts and feelings about a situation. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Dismiss\" data-back=\"A support strategy that combines avoidance-based and task-focused messages to minimize the significance of the problem.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Dismiss<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>A support strategy that combines avoidance-based and task-focused messages to minimize the significance of the problem.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Emotion-focused Coping\" data-back=\"Addressing a difficult situation by focusing on controlling the negative feelings and distress that it generates.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Emotion-focused Coping<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Addressing a difficult situation by focusing on controlling the negative feelings and distress that it generates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Emotional Support\" data-back=\"Verbal messages that focus on how a person is feeling and attempt to make the person feel better.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Emotional Support<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Verbal messages that focus on how a person is feeling and attempt to make the person feel better.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Empathy\" data-back=\"The ability to feel a vicarious emotional response that mirrors the emotional experiences of others.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Empathy<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>The ability to feel a vicarious emotional response that mirrors the emotional experiences of others.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Escape\" data-back=\"A support strategy that combines avoidance-based and emotion-focused messages to discourage the experience and expression of negative emotion.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Escape<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>A support strategy that combines avoidance-based and emotion-focused messages to discourage the experience and expression of negative emotion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Esteem Support\" data-back=\"Messages that point out positive personal qualities.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Esteem Support<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Messages that point out positive personal qualities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Informational Support\" data-back=\"Messages that give advice or point out helpful facts.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Informational Support<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Messages that give advice or point out helpful facts. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Network Support\" data-back=\"Messages that linking someone in distress to others who can help.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Network Support<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Messages that linking someone in distress to others who can help.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Nonverbal Immediacy\" data-back=\"The involvement and warmth a person communicates through physical closeness, leaning forward, facial expressions, eye contact, and touching.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Nonverbal Immediacy<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>The involvement and warmth a person communicates through physical closeness, leaning forward, facial expressions, eye contact, and touching.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Person-centerdness\" data-back=\"A quality of messages that validate, recognize, or acknowledge the recipient\u2019s feelings and experiences.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Person-centerdness<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>A quality of messages that validate, recognize, or acknowledge the recipient\u2019s feelings and experiences.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Perspective-taking\" data-back=\"The ability to understand a situation from someone else\u2019s point of view.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Perspective-taking<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>The ability to understand a situation from someone else\u2019s point of view.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Phubbing\" data-back=\"Using a smart phone to text people, scroll social media, or play games while engaged in a face-to-face conversation.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Phubbing<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Using a smart phone to text people, scroll social media, or play games while engaged in a face-to-face conversation. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Problem-focused Coping\" data-back=\"Addressing a difficult situation by focusing on understanding and resolving it.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Problem-focused Coping<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Addressing a difficult situation by focusing on understanding and resolving it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Solace\" data-back=\"A support strategy that combines approach-based and emotion-focused messages to elicit positive emotions and foster intimacy.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Solace<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>A support strategy that combines approach-based and emotion-focused messages to elicit positive emotions and foster intimacy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Solve\" data-back=\"A support strategy that combines approach-based and task-focused messages to find solutions to the problem.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Solve<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>A support strategy that combines approach-based and task-focused messages to find solutions to the problem.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Support Gap\" data-back=\"A discrepancy between the type or amount of support that is desired and what is received.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Support Gap<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>A discrepancy between the type or amount of support that is desired and what is received.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Supportive Conversational Motifs\" data-back=\"Multi-turn sequences of behavior in conversations where one person is discussing a source of distress with a listener.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Supportive Conversational Motifs<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Multi-turn sequences of behavior in conversations where one person is discussing a source of distress with a listener. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <!-- Swiper Slide -->\n        <div class=\"swiper-slide\">\n          <!-- Flashcard -->\n           <button class=\"flip-card\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" data-front=\"Tangible Support\" data-back=\"Practical aid that addresses the source of a person\u2019s distress.\">\n            <div class=\"flip-card-inner\">\n              <div class=\"flip-card-front\">\n                <p><p>Tangible Support<\/p>\n<\/p>\n                <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"flashcard-instruction\">Click to Flip<\/div>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"flip-card-back\"><p>Practical aid that addresses the source of a person\u2019s distress.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/button>\n        <\/div>\n\n        \n        <div id=\"flashcard-instruction-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"sr-only\">Press Enter or Space to flip the card<\/div>\n        <div id=\"flip-announcement-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"sr-only\" role=\"status\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"swiper-nav\">\n      \n      <a class=\"swiper-button-prev swiper-button-prev-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\"><svg class=\"arrow-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 42 42\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polygon points=\"28.067,1 8,21.068 27.569,40.637 32.502,35.704 17.864,21.068 33,5.933\"\/><\/svg><\/a>\n      <div class=\"swiper-pagination swiper-pagination-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\"><\/div>\n      <a class=\"swiper-button-next swiper-button-next-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\"><svg class=\"arrow-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 42 42\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polygon points=\"13.933,1 34,21.068 14.431,40.637 9.498,35.704 24.136,21.068 9,5.933\"\/><\/svg><\/a>\n      \n    <div>\n<\/div>\n<div role=\"region\" aria-live=\"polite\" id=\"announcement-block_a8eafcf72694ed567ae80c390ca42d2b\" class=\"visually-hidden\"><\/div>\n\n<script>\n(function() {\n    \/\/ Use the unique block ID to target this specific instance\n    var blockId = 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Press Space or Enter to flip`;\n        });\n\n        flipCard.addEventListener('blur', () => {\n            announcement.textContent = '';\n        });\n    });\n})();\n<\/script><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4805a82d wp-block-group-is-layout-flex wp-container-1 is-position-sticky\">\n<nav aria-label=\"Table of Contents\" class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents\"><ol><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/chapter-resources\/chapter-12\/#aioseo-how-do-you-rate-15\">How Do You Rate?<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/chapter-resources\/chapter-12\/#aioseo-communication-in-action-27\">Communication In Action<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/chapter-resources\/chapter-12\/#aioseo-connect-with-theory-19\">Connect with Theory<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/chapter-resources\/chapter-12\/#aioseo-flashcards-21\">Flashcards<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>One vital function served by interpersonal communication is the provision of comfort and support. This chapter examines the nonverbal and verbal messages people use to provide support in various forms. How comforting unfolds through the back-and-forth exchange of messages between partners is described, as well as the role of support-seekers in this process and differences&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"parent":88,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-266","content","type-content","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t<!-- All in One SEO Pro 5.0.1.1 - aioseo.com -->\n\t<meta name=\"description\" content=\"One vital function served by interpersonal communication is the provision of comfort and support. This chapter examines the nonverbal and verbal messages people use to provide support in various forms. How comforting unfolds through the back-and-forth exchange of messages between partners is described, as well as the role of support-seekers in this process and differences\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"max-image-preview:large\" \/>\n\t<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/routledgelearning.com\/interpersonalcomm\/chapter-resources\/chapter-12\/\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"generator\" content=\"All in One SEO Pro (AIOSEO) 5.0.1.1\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Interpersonal Communication - Third Edition\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Chapter 12: Communicating Comfort and Support - Interpersonal Communication\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"One vital function served by interpersonal communication is the provision of comfort and support. 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