If it’s a barrier for one, it’s a barrier for both.
© Dr. Bill Nodrick 2005
Instructions—Part A: First, print out a copy of
this document. [Click here
for a printer friendly version.] Then, together with your partner, check off all of the items that
each of you regard as barriers to your being able to communicate effectively.
Use the spaces at the end of the list to add any additional barriers.
q
Bad
timing (e.g., tired, hungry, not fully awake, just home from work, etc.)
q Insufficient
time to address the issue adequately
q
Language
use barriers (e.g., disrespectful, provocative, etc.)
q Failure
to verify or re-verify the accuracy of information communicated
q Indirect
communication
q Distractions
q
Emotional
overlay (e.g., anger, fear, etc.)
q Baggage
(i.e., old issues implicated)
q
Expectation
of poor communication based upon a history of ineffective communication
q Gender
differences
q Information
omitted (e.g., half truths)
q
In
the company of others
q
Failure
to manage “nonverbals” (e.g., tone of voice, posture, gestures, eye rolling,
etc.)
q
Kitchen
sinking (throwing in everything but the kitchen sink)
q
Disorganized
information (i.e., lack of clarity regarding what you wish to communicate)
q
No
regular time for addressing issues of concern
q
Failure
to set time limits on the discussion of an issue
q Failure
to specify a time to return to an unfinished issue
q
Other
_______________________________________________________________________
q
Other
_______________________________________________________________________
q
Other
_______________________________________________________________________
Instructions—Part B: In the space below, state
what you will do, as a couple, to set the stage for better communication. Keep
in mind that it’s only a solution if you both agree to it, agree to
abide by it, and DO it.
Our Solution:
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For a printer friendly version, right click here and "Save Target As"
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