INDIVIDUAL SKILL DEVELOPMENT PAPER

Select a relationship in which you are currently involved and identify a "pattern" (habit or behavior) of communication you would like to change. Using the following 5-step plan (including the specific outline below), prepare a 4-6 page (double-spaced, typed) plan for change.

STEP ONE: DETERMINING WHY CHANGE IS DESIRED

A. Describe a "pattern" that you would like to change.
B. Describe the relationship in which it exists.
C. Discuss the:
a. Problems it creates for you
b. Needs that do not get fulfilled because of the "pattern"

STEP TWO: RECOGNIZING THE BEHAVIOR SITUATION

A. Description
a. Describe in detail a specific event where the "pattern" was experienced
b. Describe other common situations where this "pattern" is likely to occur.
B. Early Detection
a. Identify cues you can use in a situation where the "pattern" is likely to occur
b. The type of conditions leading up to the "pattern"

STEP THREE: PREPLANNING FOR CHANGE

A. Choices, alternatives and strategies for improved interaction - develop a wide range of alternatives from which to choose the specific activities you'll carry out in Step 4
B. Objectives (what the interaction will look like w/out the "pattern")
C. Activities to specifically change the "pattern" (based on class material this semester-use the terms for what you discuss)

STEP FOUR: DESCRIBING WHAT HAPPENED

Describe what happened when you began to attempt the change-who said and did what? What were the other person's responses?

What did you do to adapt your plan to their response?

STEP FIVE: ASSESSING CHANGE

Analysis of the results of your project to date: what did you do well? What could be improved upon or what you would you do differently in the future? What are the positive & negative consequences of your new behavior?

• Use subheadings above (step one, two, three, etc.); write your plan for yourself - you cannot develop a plan for someone else, b/c you cannot force another's behavior change. You can only change your behavior.