Original HW Assignment Question (For reference)

• What would you identify as some of your personal communication strengths with respect to how you exercise power?
• What would you identify as some of your personal communication growth areas with respect to how you exercise power?
• If you were to imagine (or if you are currently) a human services professional working with a client population of your choice (e.g., children and families, the mentally ill, the homeless, etc.), how would (or do) you use your knowledge of your strengths and limitations, in addition to the ethical standards for human service professionals, to reduce the presence of negative power and influence that you might have in a situation with a client?

Guided Response: Consider ways in which you might like to interact with your peers. For example, in what ways do you display power and influence similarly or differently? Would you address negative displays of power and influence in the same way? Why or why not? Please be courteous and adhere to the rules of respectful engagement throughout your replies.

Classmate #1

Tiffany Moore

I am also very open and honest with others in communication. I am often told that some of my sharing is “TMI” or too much information. I practice this way of effective communication because I want the same in return. I don’t want to ask too many questions, but unfortunately, I have an insatiable need to collect and gather information in conversation, because I don’t want to speak on a matter without all of the necessary parts that can affect the outcome of the resolution. I regret advising someone on a matter where they did not disclose all the pertinent information to get to a resolution. I especially hate to say, “They didn’t tell me that!” Thanks for sharing.

Classmate #2

Rebekah Clark

Thanks so much for your post! I agree that the non-verbals (facial expression and body language) are a huge part of communciation and can impact it greatly. Practicing in front of a mirror may work or allowing someone to video tape you as you “practice” a session on someone so you can see how your face is responding all may be ways to increase awarness! I struggle as well with not showing reactions on my face when I need to remain nuetral or calm, so I feel your pain! Remaining relaxed and nuetral is actually a key de-escalation technique in a crisis, so being able to show calmness on your face is a big asset!

Rebekah Clark