In OARS, what does the R stand for and what is its purpose?

• A. Prompts the youth to share more details.
• B. Summaries of the interview.
• C. Statements of understanding.
• D. Advice on next steps.

Answer: (D)

Reflective listening is the R in OARS. It means listening closely and then restating, paraphrasing, or echoing back what the youth has said, often including the underlying feeling you detect. The purpose is to show you understand, validate their experience, and invite them to expand on their thoughts and feelings. This helps them hear their own ambivalence and motives, which can strengthen motivation and open up more change talk. For example, if they say they’re worried about keeping up with school, a reflective response might be, “It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure you can keep up.” That confirms understanding and encourages them to share more, rather than offering advice or jumping to conclusions.