10 Road Blocks to Effective Communication

Situations

Adult Responses
(on white index cards)

S-1. Mom, I'm not sure what to do about my class schedule this year. It's really tough with all the extras I've got to do.

R-1. You should take every math and science course offered. You ought to see how important that is.

S-2. Dad, that boy just took my truck.

R-2. It's your problem. You solve it.

S-3. Mom, the jar of glue just fell over on the floor.

R-3. Look what you did! The carpet is ruined! It's all your fault!

S-4. Your 8-year-old got dressed for school—orange and blue shirt, green and yellow striped pants, red socks, sandals, and a baseball hat.

R-4. Only a clown would dress like that for school!

S-5. Dad, it's not my fault my math teacher hates me.

R-5. Let me tell you about my boss. You think you've got trouble!

S-6. I think I'll go to the movies tonight Mom.

R-6. You will not. You're going to stay home and study. You're going to bring your grades up.

S-7. But Dad, it's the last night for "Star Wars," and I haven't seen it.

R-7. If you don't study, there will be no car this weekend.

S-8. Mom, I really need to know if I can go to the concert on Saturday night.

R-8. We'll see—I'll think about it.

S-9. I'll pick up the puzzle later Dad.

R-9. I'm not going to tell you again. I've told you ten times to pick it up. Now!

S-10. Your child comes home from school, slams the door shut, drops his/her clothes on the floor, kicks the cabinet, and turns on the TV.

R-10. You frown, cross your arms, tap your foot, and stand in front of your child.