One of the best ways to learn about a topic is through examples; ineffective communication is no different. Unfortunately, many people struggle to identify ineffective communication because the examples they have been given are either too obvious, unhelpful, or so specific to a situation that they are not replicable in the real world. Because of …
In a world that often seems divided by differing opinions and beliefs, the concept of giving someone the “benefit of the doubt” can be a powerful tool for fostering understanding, trust, and compassion. This principle, though simple in theory, holds profound implications for our relationships, workplaces, and communities. By exploring its meaning, advantages, and applications, …
Empathetic listening, sometimes referred to as empathic listening, goes beyond simply hearing words. It involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others. This type of listening can build stronger connections, foster trust, and promote harmony in relationships. In a world where everyone is rushing to voice their opinions, true, active listening has become a rare …
Parties preparing for negotiation may need the term “positional bargaining” explained. Positional bargaining is a negotiation strategy used to drive the bargain and attempt to secure a possible value from a bargaining session. Many people view bargaining as a harsh and poor form of negotiation. While this style of negotiation often results in win-lose situations …
The factors that contribute to power imbalance are often complex and difficult to notice daily, but over time, they contribute to an unhealthy dynamic if they are not addressed. Imbalances of power can be found in every relationship, from our most vulnerable and trusted relationships with partners and best friends to workplaces or even in …
A scheduling conflict occurs when two or more activities or events are planned for the same period, making it impossible for an individual or a team to attend both. Schedule conflicts are a common issue in professional settings, where meetings, deadlines, and tasks often overlap. A scheduling conflict can also occur in personal life, with …
Mediated communication is communication where a technological medium is employed to communicate messages to another. In today’s technology-driven world, we spend less time in the same spaces as our friends and colleagues. Much of our work and free time is spent communicating through a screen with one another rather than sitting face-to-face. Technology has allowed …
The selective perception theory is that we will ignore stimuli that do not align with our existing beliefs or attitudes to focus on the ones that do. Selective perception is not inherently a bad practice, but over-reliance on it can lead to cognitive dissonance and a warped understanding of reality. When we are in situations …
Bird nesting divorce is a way that couples have sought to lessen the effects of divorce on their children. Divorce is often a time of stress and change for both the couple and their children. Often one of the changes that the couple needs to grow into is the separate living situations, which can often …
What is a Value Conflict? Conflicts are an inherent part of social existence because we are in constant competition for resources. We also are in conflict because we have different goals and different ideas about our place in society, what our rights, duties, and responsibilities to other people are, and what constitutes right, wrong, …