Comments on: What Are You Projecting?

By: Derek Parish

Derek Parish — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:54:43 +0000

Steve,
All the comments posted are very valid.Geoff makes a really good point about trained psychology. You can only really get into the issues if you are prepared to find the time to reach a better outcome. Often, when facilitating, the contractor determines the time spent on reaching solutions and this is often a monetary decision. “We can’t afford to give the group any more time…we need outcomes and solutions.” These decision makers are not interested in the value of debate/conversation, only in reaching speedy conclusions.
With projections, it is all about supporting the individual to change their self talk for keeps so that they can at least rationalise the thought process. There are solutions out there in the market place to help with this (I personally use a method developed by well known psychologists and teachers)however I find that others see it as mumbo jumbo, fluffy or cranky … and these are often influencers who discount its value without evidence. Best wishes.

By: Kathleen Paris

Kathleen Paris — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 16:35:03 +0000

Steve, I am glad you are exploring this topic of projections. I think that we as facilitators who take responsibility for a group process have an added burden to be aware of our own projections. Since they are subconcious, it’s tricky, but the questions you posed can just as appropriately asked of ourselves when we notice that we are upset or thinking that something “always happens that way.” Thanks!

By: Geoff Allan

Geoff Allan — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 01:21:17 +0000

While I agree that as a facilitator, you must be aware of this circumstance so that you can better process the responses that you are getting, one has to be very careful not to venture into the realm of psychology unless you are trained. It is a delicate balance to be sure. It is one thing to make the individual aware that it is happening and ask them to reflect on and possibly reconsider their response, but quite another to offer the opportunity to explore it more deeply with them. These can be “hot buttons” for many people so it is good to be clear about your boundaries. If, as a facilitator, you encounter this frequently it may be more appropriate to refer them than treat them.

By: Barb Bickford

Barb Bickford — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:54:18 +0000

Equally true is positive projection. We see in others what is true of ourselves. For example, I have often marveled at a friend’s gracious and generous hospitality. Gradually it dawned on me I was like her.

By: Vicky

Vicky — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:57:37 +0000

I have found Byron Katie’s work very helpful with projections. As I master my own projections, as a facilitator, I have found I can more skillfully help others.
http://www.thework.com/thework.php