discussion forum 96

1) Recall a recent situation (most likely prior to shelter-in-place) with a friend, significant other, or relative where you think there may have been multiple interpretations of their behavior. For instance, a family member might have been distracted the last time you chatted, a friend could have sent a text message that was too short, or a significant other may have seemed angry over an issue.

2) Construct/develop a perception check of the situation (an actual statement you could say to someone). For example:

“While we were out for coffee yesterday, I noticed that you kept checking your phone (behavior description). I am not sure if you were expecting an important call or text (interpretation #1), or if I was simply talking for too long (interpretation #2). Can you let me know what was going on (request for clarification)?

3) IF POSSIBLE: Connect with the person and try out your perception check statement.

In the discussion forum, please respond to the following:

{Describe and Reflect}:

• What was the situation that prompted you to want to do a perception check? (give us some context)
• What was your perception checking statement? (Note: Actually tell us the message that you used and label all the parts, as in the above example)
• If you were able to actually try it: what happened?
• What do you find to be the challenging about this “perception-checking” skills practice? How do you feel about trying this type of perception-checking messaging skill in your future relationships?

(Expected word count = approximately 300 words)