Perceptions

1
Perceptions

• The Perception Process
• Selection which impressions we will attend to
• Organization arrange it in some meaningful way
• Interpretation how we interpret them in a way
  that makes some sort of sense

2
Interpretation Factors

• Degree of involvement with the other person
• Past experience
• Assumptions about human behavior
• Expectations/anticipation
• Knowledge
• Self-concept

3
Perceptions Process Illustration

• Video Clip - At First Sight
• While watching, be prepared to answer the
  following question
• Give examples of how Virgil selects, organizes,
  and interprets sensory information in this scene.

4
Influences on Perceptions

• Physiological
• Cultural differences
• Social Roles
• Self-Concept

5
Accuracy and Inaccuracy of Perception

• We are most influenced by what is most obvious
• We cling to first impressions
• We tend to assume that others are similar to us

6
Perception Checking

• Has 3 parts
• A description of the behavior you noticed
• At least two possible interpretations of the
  behavior
• A request for clarification

7
Examples

• When you stomped out of the room and slammed the
  door (behavior), I wasnt sure whether you were
  mad at me (first interpretation) or just in a
  hurry (second interpretation). How did you
  feel? (request for clarification)

8
Examples

• You havent laughed much in the last couple of
  days (behavior). It makes me wonder whether
  something is bothering you (first
  interpretation) or whether youre just feeling
  quiet (second interpretation). Whats up?
  (request for clarification)

9
Practice

• You said you really liked the job I
  did.___________ On the other hand, there was
  something about your voice that made me think you
  may not like it. ___________ Maybe it is just
  my imagination though.____________ How do you
  really feel?____________
• Your turn to practice!!