EARS is a structured approach to interviewing developed at BRIEF (Ratner, George, Iveson) for the most effective gathering of information and amplification of positive aspects. Four steps: E — Elicit, A — Amplify, R — Reinforce, S — Start Over (with a different perspective).
Step-by-step guide
- E — Elicit: 1. Ask an open question: "What brought you here?" 2. Listen, do not interrupt 3. Ask clarifying questions about best hopes
- A — Amplify: 1. Repeat key words: "You said you want to be closer to your children" 2. Expand: "What does that mean? What does it look like?" 3. Ask in more detail: "Give an example"
- R — Reinforce: 1. Acknowledge the importance: "This matters a lot to you" 2. Give a compliment: "I see that you care" 3. Ask about resources: "What is already working a little?"
- S — Start Over: 1. With another family member or another perspective 2. Then connect the different points of view
When to use
- In work with families, groups, complex stories
- Family therapy
- Mediation in a conflict
- A multi-voice situation
Key phrases
What would you like to change in your family? (Elicit)
What are your best hopes? (Elicit)
Follow-up questions
You said "we are closer to each other". What does that look like? (Amplify)
Give an example of when you are already a little closer (Amplify)
This is very important — the wish to be closer (Reinforce)
It is clear that all of you want good relationships (Reinforce)
Now I want to ask the mother what she would like (Start Over)
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not skip Reinforce — without acknowledgment the family may not feel heard
- ⚠️ Start Over does not mean ignoring what was said — it is a return with another voice
Source: BRIEF (Ratner, George, Iveson)
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.