Post by Lindsay Rachow on Feb 10, 2016 22:55:52 GMT
Factors that can get in the way of my critical thinking: emotions, beliefs, and intuition. It is important to assess these factors to see if there is fact/truth to substantiate the reasons. Acting on emotions can lead to quick and incorrect decisions. I started to think of my critical thinking skills when I watched the video and read the articles. I realized that I take my time when I am making a decision, at least I make a conscious effort to! I have found that when I don’t take time to think about the situation thoroughly and understand my personal emotions involved, I will make a poor decision (this is addressed further down).
When the article, Critical Thinking for Managers: A Manifesto, referred to the Five Emotional Competencies - I immediately thought of a quote that I often say to myself when I am feeling emotionally unregulated, “There are no stressful situations, only stressful responses”. Now, I know this does not resonate for every single situation, but plainly stated – it is how you respond to a situation that will determine how you will handle the situation. This helps me to think more clearly and realize that I have control of my emotions to make thoughtful choices.
An example when I did not use my critical thinking skills was when I was trying to advertise a new therapy program to Probation Officers. This program specifically worked with perpetrators of domestic violence who had substance use problems. I went into the meeting thinking, “I have this!” and did not put extensive thought into how the Officers would receive this new program. I was using more of my opinion on the subject rather than fact. The result was that I was put on the hot seat! I was asked questions that I was not prepared for. I lacked thinking about their role with this specific population and the violence that happens on law enforcement when dealing with DV cases. I did not use my critical thinking skills to fully assess the situation. Instead, I was “reflexive, quick, and used unthinking judgment” (as stated in the video).
The result was that it took me longer to gain the trust of the Probation Officers and the Department. It took longer to get clients involved in the program because I was not able to provide sufficient, concise, thoughtful information the first time. The outcome could have been different if I used my critical thinking skills the FIRST time, instead of backtracking and using them the SECOND time. I would have saved time (both mine and the Officers) and built a stronger program in a more efficient amount of time. I would have gained the trust of these Officers and been able to focus on other aspects of the program.