Build a Trusting Atmosphere

It´s easy to beat on someone if they tell you an unpleasant truth - you react harshly to the news, and take it out on the message bearer. If you do this, though, you reinforce the idea that this person should avoid telling you truths if they *think* you won´t like it. This is a dangerous situation to get into.

When someone tells you something honestly, even if it hurts, step back and realize that it was probably difficult for the person to tell you the information. Remember this even in tough situation, like catching a cheating spouse. Make sure you react to the news, and not the sender ... and make sure the sender knows that you value the truth.