TABLE 2.1

PERCEPTION-CHECKING

SITUATION Imagine that you are working on a group project for your communication class. Your group leader, Heather, doesn’t take suggestions from other members and only moves forward with her own ideas. What steps should you take before confronting Heather about her leadership style?

1

Review your knowledge.

What do you know about Heather as a classmate?

I know that Heather:

  • Is a dedicated student
  • Is on an academic scholarship
  • Usually works alone
2

Assess attributions.

What combination of internal and external attributions may Heather’s behavior stem from?

Internal: Heather is controlling.

External: Heather has a lot of pressure to succeed academically.

3

Question your impression.

Is your conclusion fair?

Is it correct to conclude that Heather is simply a bossy leader?

4

Share your impression.

Present your impression to Heather in an open manner to invite conversation.

“To me, it seems the discussions are a little one-sided. I think all the group members would like to contribute.”

5

Check your impression.

See if Heather understands your viewpoint, and discuss a way to make it better.

“That’s my viewpoint. Do you agree? Can we make discussions more inclusive?”

TAKE AWAY Instead of jumping to conclusions, it’s important to remember that both internal and external attributions affect a person’s behavior. Once you understand that the external pressure to keep her academic scholarship is causing Heather to control the group, you can more competently approach improving communication within the group.