Impact of Perception

1. Perception Checking Impact of Perception • We act towards others on the basis of our perceptions • We often use our perceptions to predict what we think the other will think or do next. • We are less likely check the accuracy of our perceptions with those we know well or people we’ve already decided are “bad”. Tricia S. Jones, Temple University, copyright protect, March 2006

2. Perception Checking A Technique to reduce bias • Perception checking is a tool that helps prevent misunderstanding and conflict. • The goal of perception checking is mutual understanding. Tricia S. Jones, Temple University, copyright protect, March 2006

3. Perception Checking Perception Checking has 3 parts: • Description - provide a description of the behavior you noticed. • Interpretation - provide two possible interpretations of the behavior. • Clarification - request clarification from the person about the behavior & your interpretations. Tricia S. Jones, Temple University, copyright protect, March 2006

4. Perception Checking • Perception Checking Example: “When you stomped out of the room and slammed the door…” (description of behavior)“I wasn’t sure whether you were mad at me…”(interpretation #1)“or just in a hurry.”(interpretation #2)“What were you feeling?”(request for clarification) Tricia S. Jones, Temple University, copyright protect, March 2006

5. Perception Process Practice Perception Checking in dyads: • A neighbor and good friend has not responded to your “Good morning” for three days in a row. This person is usually friendly. • You haven’t received the usual weekly phone call from your folks in over a month. The last time you spoke, you argued about where to spend the holidays. Tricia S. Jones, Temple University, copyright protect, March 2006