[From Bob C. (980625.1740PT)]
Rick Marken (980623.1500)]
If we want to talk about alternative approaches to achieving
the goals of the RTP program, I guess we'll just have to leave
out the word "coercion" since it is ambiguous. Since we seem
to agree that the RTP teacher is required to control behavior,
can we perhaps discuss ways to implement the RTP program without
requiring that teachers control student behavior?
This is the most constructive suggestion I have heard in a while. In talking
about RTP and the school system, we could just use the phrase controlling
anothers behavior (controlling students behavior in this case), with out
compromising the the PCT model. This is probably a less conflict contributing
phrase to the parties involved than the word coercion, and this benefit surely
outweighs the cost in using a couple of more words.
I don't know if the above technique of using the long hand is tantamount to
going down a level, but I tend to use it often in talking to people while by
passing and not disturbing high priority/stakes variables (for many people)
such as self image, reputation, and status which put them on the defensive
(countering). Coming to agreement at a more specific level, people can induce
(organize) their own higher level structures, and if they use their/ different
words, bid deal. The only problem to watch out for here is miscommunication,
in which case both parties can go down a level again until they can agree on a
term.
I just thought of another way evolutionalry psychology can be related to PCT.
According to evolutionary psychology humans have a strong propensity to
control for the perception of winning arguments. Being aware of this we can
settle arguements more quickly and avoid them more often without compromising
PCT, rather than being enslaved to time consuming endless arguing which goes
no where.
With regard to RTP, I think discussing ways to minimize the use of control of
student behavior would be great, and also spelling out clearly under what
circumstances it will be used.
Bob C.