Duration
20-30 min per 1 “conflict” (two people)
Materials
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Origin of Tool
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Website
For additional information
https://bridgedale360.org/mod/forum/view.php?id=166
The Own Side / Other Side
Expected outcome
- To learn to see the other side of a conflict
- To explore the meaning of compromising and to experience the relief even temporary (rather than perfect) solutions can give
- To experience conflict as a gift for overcoming blockages and seeing things from different perspectives.
Abstract
While conflicts create points of tension, they are also creative opportunities to experience different perspectives and to find solutions that are satisfying for all those involved. However, to fully resolve a conflict and use it as an opportunity of learning, certain needs must be met:Both sides must (at least to some degree) be able to think from the other person’s perspective;There must be a space of compassion and empathy;Ability to put personal attachments aside.This exercise will allow participants to experience a conflict from both sides, enabling them to resolve it by considering all perspectives and understanding the others’ view.
Content
- Participants are divided into groups of 3. Two people will be on either side of the conflict (Self and Other Self) and one will serve as a facilitator. The Self in each group is asked to think of a real conflict or difficulty that she/he is currently experiencing with an individual. They should describe/summarize it briefly to their partner (Other Self), putting effort into describing what they know of the other person’s perspective.
- For the first round, ‘Self’ plays themselves and ‘Other Self’ plays the part of the other. They should do their best to actually become the other and not be afraid of arguing back and defending ‘their’ position. This is a conflict after all!
- As soon as the facilitator witnesses the Self starting to repeat themselves or seem to go round in circles (disregarding what the Other Self says in response), they should end the round.
- The Self and Other Self now switch roles (facilitator stays).This is the time to review any guidelines and make any necessary changes (such as the timeout rules etc).
- This is where the real change can happen. The original Self now has the opportunity to really inherit and experience the views and ‘side’ of the Other Self, to experience what the other is feeling throughout their conflicts.
- Once repetition has been perceived to be happening again by the facilitator, this round ends and this is the moment/opportunity to take a small break.
- The original Self should now return to their role.
Wrap up
The conflict should be started again, with the expressed intention of using what they just experienced to find a solution.
Contribute
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