What does "listening from a position of not knowing" imply for RSSes?

"Listening from a position of not knowing" implies an approach where Recovery Support Specialists (RSSes) connect with individuals without preconceived notions or biases about their experiences. It emphasizes an open-minded stance, allowing the person sharing their story the space to express themselves fully, without the RSS assuming they already understand or relate to the situation.

By not requiring to hear the whole story, RSSes can focus on the emotions and key aspects that the person is willing to share at that moment. This approach encourages authentic sharing and fosters trust, as the individual may feel less pressured to present their narrative in a specific way or to meet certain expectations from the listener. It values the uniqueness of each individual's journey and promotes a supportive and empathetic environment for recovery.

The other options imply certain assumptions about the relationship dynamics or the necessity of specific backgrounds, which can lead to constraints in the conversation. Instead, the principle of listening without knowing allows RSSes to engage freely and prioritize the individual's perspective above all else.