Social Problem-solving Skills

BikiCrumbs: Social Problem-solving Skills

Arguing constructively

Young people need to develop the ability to argue constructively.
Part of arguing constructively is knowing how to keep a problem in perspective and using language, which highlights how the young person feels.
“You made this happen” or “it’s your fault!” examples of not fighting constructively.

As young people experiment with life’s experiences, situations arise which call for negotiation and compromise.
In order to discuss and decide on the rules and compromises to be used within a household, skills like staying calm, presenting facts and feelings logically and attempting to see everyone’s opinions from different perspectives, need to be used.
An example of a compromise is a young person undertaking a part-time job if they intend to leave school early.
Negotiation and compromise with peers also needs to be established within young people, simple things such as picking a movie needs these skills.

At times the above negotiation and compromise fail.
Skills involving conflict resolution are then needed.
Resolving conflict involves mature approaches to the problem.
Conflicts can often be quickly resolved by talking through the issue in an open and non-judgmental manner.
As always, trying to resolve means looking at it fairly and respecting the other person’s opinions.
The problem will not be easily fixed if both people avoid it; this will only cause more distress.

Empathy is an appreciative perception or understanding.
Being empathetic involves mentally trying to ‘feel’ the situation of others as they feel it.
This might be listening to a young friend while they share their experiences or problems.
Mentally placing ourselves in the situation, helps us to perceive that persons understanding of the situation.

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