In the 4 A's model, which step comes immediately after 'Ask'?

• A. Affirm.
• B. Assess.
• C. Act.
• D. Assert.

Answer: (A)

In this communication sequence, you first gather information by Asking and then move to validate the person’s feelings. The step that comes immediately after Asking is Affirm. Affirmation means acknowledging and validating the other person’s emotions and perspective, not dismissing or judging them. This validation shows you heard them and helps reduce defensiveness, creating a safer space for them to share more and for you to proceed with Assessing needs and risks. Once you’ve affirmed, you’re better prepared to Assess the situation—consider safety, resources, and what support is needed—and then Act to implement a plan. For example, you might say, “I can see why this is upsetting,” which demonstrates affirmation. The next steps after affirmation are Assess and then Act. The other terms aren’t part of this sequence, so they aren’t the correct next step.