A good topic Ryair... I learnt reflective listening when I was 28 I think, and I must say its one very powerful process to use in order to calm any situation or conversation... it actually generates conversation, as you mentioned. Generally ministers, counselors and those type of positions are taught this technique in order to counsel. I was fortunate enough to be taught it by an Army Chaplain at a training course I did in how to command more effectively. It was about these type things, how to get things out of people without really solving their problems, more simply let them know that you are listening, and they will do all the talking... it works. I use it every day, here even...