The best parents and leaders use a 3-step formula to help people handle uncertainty, says Dr. Becky Kennedy

Dr. Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and founder of Good Inside, has introduced a straightforward three-step formula to help parents and leaders manage uncertainty by fostering transparency and reassurance. During a talk at the Charter’s New Employer Brand Summit in New York City on June 9, she emphasized that this approach can reduce anxiety and build trust in both children and teams.

Kennedy’s method involves starting with what is known, acknowledging what remains uncertain, and concluding with a reaffirmation of support. She explained that openly admitting uncertainty, rather than pretending to have all the answers, helps others feel more comfortable with change. For example, a parent might say, “Here’s what I know: You’ve been practicing soccer. Here’s what I don’t know: Whether you’ll make the team. Here’s what I know: We’ll get through it together.”

Similarly, at work, a leader might communicate, “There may be changes at the company. I don’t know the exact details or timing. What I do know is that if it happens, you’ll be informed, and I will support you.” Kennedy likened this to pilots addressing turbulence, noting that transparency alleviates passenger anxiety, even when they lack full information.

Impact of the 3-Step Approach on Trust and Anxiety

This communication strategy is significant because it offers a practical way to reduce fear and build trust during uncertain times. For parents, it can help children feel more secure; for leaders, it can maintain team morale and clarity. As uncertainty increases in various settings, adopting this approach could improve emotional resilience and foster healthier relationships.

Background on Managing Uncertainty in Parenting and Leadership

Managing uncertainty has long been a challenge for both parents and leaders, especially during times of rapid change or unpredictability. Traditional approaches often involve either downplaying concerns or providing overly vague reassurances, which can backfire. Dr. Kennedy’s method builds on psychological principles emphasizing transparency and validation, aligning with recent advice from mental health experts on effective communication during crises.

The approach gained prominence through Kennedy’s recent presentation at the Charter summit, where she highlighted its simplicity and broad applicability. It echoes existing research suggesting that acknowledgment and honesty foster trust and emotional stability in children and adults alike.

“Everything changes just because they were willing to speak to it.”

— Dr. Becky Kennedy

Current Limitations and Unanswered Questions

While Kennedy’s formula is widely praised for its simplicity, it is not yet clear how effective it is across diverse cultural or high-stakes scenarios. There is limited empirical data validating its long-term impact on reducing anxiety or improving trust in complex organizational or family settings. Additionally, how individuals with different communication styles or levels of emotional resilience respond remains to be studied.

Future Research and Practical Adoption of the Formula

Experts anticipate further studies to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach in various contexts, including workplaces, schools, and therapy settings. Meanwhile, organizations and families are encouraged to experiment with the method and share feedback. Training programs and workshops may emerge to help leaders and parents implement this communication style more broadly.

Key Questions

Can this 3-step formula be effective in high-stakes or crisis situations?

While promising, its effectiveness in high-stakes scenarios is not yet fully established. It is generally considered helpful for fostering trust and reducing anxiety, but additional research is needed for extreme cases.

How can leaders incorporate this approach in daily communication?

Leaders can start by openly acknowledging what they know and don’t know during meetings or updates, then reaffirm their commitment to support their teams regardless of the outcome.

Is this approach suitable for children of all ages?

It is most effective with school-aged children and teenagers, but the core principles can be adapted for younger children with age-appropriate language.

Are there any potential downsides to this communication method?

Some may perceive it as too candid or may worry about sharing too much uncertainty. Proper framing and reassurance are essential to avoid increasing anxiety.

Will this approach replace other communication strategies?

It is intended as a complementary tool, especially useful during times of change or uncertainty, rather than a complete replacement for other methods.

Source: CNBC