Lesson 22 - PROBLEM SOLVE

"Don't confuse me with the facts, my mind is already made up."

The goal of most problem solving is to attempt to find a creative solution in which both parties win. Although the win/win outcome is best, there are situations in which other methods are appropriate. Accommodation is appropriate when your relationship with the other person is more important than the problem, when your investment is not high, when you don't feel strongly about the issue or you know you are going to lose. Compromise is best when the stakes are high and a solution must be reached. It also fits when both you and the other person have leeway to give or when it is a temporary solution.

To find a creative, no-lose solution, it is best to involve those to be affected by the outcome into a problem solving process where they:
(1) recognize that a problem exixts

(2) clarify and define it,
(3) generate possible alternatives,
(4) consider and evaluate alternatives,
(5) select an alternative,
(6) implement it,
(7) and evaluate the outcome.

The use of such a process typically enhances the probability of finding a win/win solution, promotes a buy in by those involved and increases positive feelings about accepting the solution and implementing it.

This sounds simple, but is not always easy when personalities, values, means or goals are in conflict.

(Here's a good site on how to make yourself a better problem solver.)

Assignment 9: Examples of the Strategies (Lesson 22)

Now that you have completed the section on the strategies or plans (as they are referred to in the COPE model), here's an exercise for you to practice composing coping strategy statements. Read the situation and write a response which aptly illustrates each communication strategy/plan listed below.

Situation: You are a woman. A older male co-worker calls you "honey" all the time. You don't like it.

1. Present Your Case: (If you need help go back to Lesson 12)

2. Search Talk: (Lesson 17)

3. Diversion: (Lesson 21)

4. Humor: (Lesson 15)

5. Fogging: (Lesson 20)

6. Straight Talk: (Lesson 14)

Send this assignment as an email to the Instructor, Marshall Chatwin

Then go to Lesson 23

To Lesson 23

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