Rogerian Argument A Psychologist’s View

When we engage in an argument We feel threatened. We are often unable to consider alternative points of view. We defend ourselves, rather than our argument. We do not listen to each other

To reduce threat, he proposes We become partners, not adversaries. Communication should point toward solving the problem—not attacking the person or group.

To reduce threat, we must Show sympathetic understanding of the opponent. Recognize what is valid in the opposition’s argument. Recognize that the persons of the opposition are persons of good will.

Thus, Rogerian Argument Is not adversarial, seeking to refute others’ views. Does not see the listener as wrong, someone who now must be overwhelmed by the evidence.

Rather, Rogerian Argument Is nonconfrontational, collegial, and friendly. Respects others’ views and allows plural truths. Seeks to achieve some degree of assent rather than convince utterly.

Thus, Rogerian Essays State the problem Give the opponent’s position Grant whatever validity the writer finds in that position Attempt to show how the opposing position would be improved if the writer’s own position were accepted.

When Reconciliation is Difficult Show how the problem can best be solved by adopting your position.

Why Rogerian? Communication: Its Blocking and Its Facilitation Warrant: “The whole task of psychotherapy is the task of dealing with miscommunication.” Neurosis occurs when communication between self and others breaks down. The individual is then blocked , and thus distorts the way he communicates himself to others. End result: suffering End result: poor interpersonal communication

I. The Major Barrier Is our “…natural tendency to judge, to evaluate, to approve or disapprove, the statement of the person, or the other group.” “…although the tendency to make evaluations is common…it is very much heightened in those situations where feelings and emotions are deeply involved.” “So the stronger our feelings, the more likely it is that there will be no mutual element in the communication.”

II. The Solution “Real communication occurs, and this evaluative tendency is avoided, when we listen with understanding.” “It means to see the expressed idea and attitude from the other person’s point of view, to sense how it feels for him, to achieve his frame of reference in regard to the thing he is talking about.”

To Alter the Basic Personality Structure of An Individual If I listen to what he can tell me. If I understand how it seems to him. If I see its personal meaning to him. If I sense the emotional flavor it has for him. Then I will release the potent forces of change in him.

The Rule: “Each person can speak up for himself after he has first restated the ideas and feelings of the previous speaker, accurately, and to that speaker’s satisfaction.” Before presenting your point of view, it is then necessary for you to achieve the other speaker’s frame of reference….

Summary Points Avoid the evaluative tendency. Think empathically. Think non-judgmentally. Earnestly seek the truth.

Rogerian Checklist: Have I… Stated the problem and indicated that dialogue is possible? Stated at least one other point of view in a way that would satisfy the opponent? Been courteous to the opposition? Grant validity to some aspects of the opponent’s position? Stated my position and indicated the contexts in which I believe it to be valid? Pointed out the ground that we share? Shown how other positions will be strengthened by accepting some aspects of my position?