The Confrontation Model

This model allows us to confront tough issues with courage, compassion, and skill. Learning is provoked and relationships are enriched.

Opening Statement: Write your opening statement. If you can actually have a conversation with the person you are having an issue with then answer 7, 8, 9 and 10. If not ask a 3rd person how they would react to the issue and then answer 7, 8, 9, and 10.

This is a simple exercise to be handed to Prof. Bianchi at the beginning of class 10/1 -please no more than 2 pages if possible.

Your Opening Statement should:

1. Name the issue

2. Select a specific example that illustrates the behavior or situation you want to change.

3. Describe your emotions about this issue

4. Clarify what is at stake

5. Identify your contribution to the problem

6. Indicate your wish to resolve the issue

7. Invite your partner to respond

Interaction

8. Inquire into your partners views. Use paraphrasing and a perception check. Dig for full understanding; don't be satisfied with the surface. Make sure your partner knows that you fully understand and acknowledge his or her position and interests.

Resolution

9. What have we learned? Where are we now? Has anything been left unsaid that needs saying? What is needed for resolution? How can we move forward from here, given our new understanding?

10. Make a new agreement and determine how you will hold each other responsible for keeping it.