What is the purpose of Summaries in OARS?

• A. Scribbles: write down everything they say.
• B. Summaries: reinforce what has been said, show listening, and prep the youth to move on.
• C. Solicitations: ask for more information.
• D. Suggestions: propose solutions.

Answer: (B)

Summaries in OARS pull together what’s been said, show that you’ve been listening, and set up the next step in the conversation. By briefly restating the main points and any feelings the youth has shared, you validate their perspective and reduce chances of misunderstandings. This also helps surface ambivalence and connect their past remarks to where you want the conversation to go, making it easier to move toward a concrete plan.

For example, after a discussion about wanting to improve school performance but feeling overwhelmed, you might say: “So you’re hoping to establish a consistent bedtime and a short morning routine to reduce fatigue, and you want to start this week. Is that right? If so, what’s one small step you’re willing to try tonight?” This kind of wrap-up reinforces what was said and smoothly transitions to the next action.