Lecture Notes: Approaching Confrontation Respectfully

Introduction

• Importance of respectful confrontation in client work
• Misconception: Confrontation as an attack

Types of Confrontation

• Negative Confrontation: Seen as an attack, not effective
• Positive Confrontation: Goal-oriented and respectful

Common Situations for Confrontation

• Nonproductive behaviors (e.g., not attending activities, not solving problems)
• Personal issues (e.g., body odor, appearance)

Building a Relationship

• Effective confrontation requires a good relationship
• Long-term friends can say things strangers can't
• Consider if the relationship allows for confrontation

Confronting Without a Strong Relationship

• Sometimes necessary even with weak relationships
• Careful choice of words is crucial

Effective Language for Confrontation

• Avoid triggering words: "What you need to do is...", "The problem with you is...", "What's wrong with you is..."
• Use softening phrases: "Is it possible that...", "Perhaps...", "Maybe...", "Can we look at it this way..."

Skills Required for Respectful Confrontation

• Good listening skills
• Asking good questions
• Thoughtful timing and approach

Goals of Confrontation

• Bring attention to a problem or behavior
• Encourage change in behavior
• Do not make it an attack

Conclusion

• Confrontation is a tool that requires careful use
• Must be done respectfully to be effective