Surrounded By Idiots

The author emphasizes how a speaker’s intended messages can be very different from how they are actually perceived by others. What are some strategies for preventing or resolving miscommunication that you could apply to your own life?

How have you adapted your own behavior or communication to cope with different situations? Do you agree with Thomas Erikson’s assertion that people tend to wear different “masks” in different contexts? Why or why not?

Analyze the weaknesses of Erikson’s argument and method. Which claims, if any, are lacking in scientific evidence or empirical support? What are some of the criticisms of the DISC theory? Do you find these critiques valid? Why or why not?

According to Erikson, which personality types are the most prone to egotistical behavior? Why? How can they reduce their self-centeredness?

Erikson uses anecdotes to illustrate his claims and add color to his work. What are the strengths and weaknesses of this approach? Do you find it effective? Why or why not?

Erikson argues that adapting one’s behavior is a necessary social skill to succeed at work and in one’s personal life. However, he acknowledges that some people are reluctant to behave in a way that feels inauthentic to them. Can adaptability and authenticity be reconciled? If not, why not, and if so, how?

According to Erikson, which personalities are the most opposite, and therefore the most likely to misunderstand each other? What does he propose as a solution to this problem? Do you agree with his assessments? Why or why not?

Reflect on your own professional experiences and a major conflict you have experienced with colleagues or management. How would you try to resolve these conflicts using Erikson’s methods? Do you think it would be effective?