Establishing rapport with a victim is essential for effective communication and support. Eye contact and voice control are particularly powerful forms of nonverbal communication because they convey attentiveness, empathy, and confidence. Maintaining appropriate eye contact shows that you are engaged and genuinely interested in what the victim is saying, which can help them feel valued and understood. Additionally, controlling your voice—through tone, pace, and volume—can further reinforce your empathy and create a calming atmosphere.
While other forms of nonverbal communication, like facial expressions and gestures, can also play an important role, eye contact combined with voice control directly impacts the dynamics of the interaction, fostering trust and openness in a critical moment. It's about creating a safe space for the victim to express themselves, and effective use of eye contact and a steady voice helps achieve this goal.