What is the purpose of communication aimed at attending to another's needs?

The purpose of communication aimed at attending to another's needs is to provide assistance, support, or aid. This type of communication focuses on understanding the concerns, emotions, or requirements of the other person and responding in a way that addresses those needs. This can manifest in various forms, such as offering emotional support, providing information, or taking actions that will assist the other individual. The primary goal is to help the person feel heard, valued, and cared for, thus fostering a sense of connection and trust.

While influence, relate, and play can also be elements of communication, they do not specifically address the essential need to focus on and respond to another's needs in a supportive manner. Influence might imply changing someone's thoughts or behaviors, while relate focuses on establishing a connection. Playing can involve light-hearted interactions without the serious intent of addressing immediate needs. Thus, helping is the most direct and relevant purpose when it comes to attending to another's needs in communication.