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Thinking About Growth |
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Framing Questionnaire |
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The way that we think about growth and the actions that we decide to take to advance our interests result from the way we define what growth issues are “about.” Conflict resolution scholars refer to such definitions as “framing.” As we decide what we think about growth, we are making a number of important framing decisions. In most cases these decisions are made at a subconscious level and we are often unaware of their importance. We also often fail to consider the very real possibility that further consideration of our framing decisions might significantly alter the way we think about growth and the actions that we advocate for addressing it. This Thinking about Growth program address this problem by providing a structured framework which encourages people to systematically reflect upon and, where appropriate, reconsider the ways in which they frame growth related issues. The core of the program is a questionnaire which can easily be completed in about an hour. It begins by asking you to indicate your views on a variety of issues using a five-point scale. We then encourage you to think about the reasoning behind your decisions, and what would it would take to persuade you to modify your views (in ways in which might be more sympathetic to opposing groups). You can fill out the questionnaire as an individual exercise, or it can be used as part of a group process in which participants first fill out the questionnaire and then spend an hour or two in small group, facilitated discussions designed to help participants further explore and reflect upon their differing frames. No one should be asked to change their positions as part of this program (though participants may want to incorporate any reassessment of their views into their future, personal growth-related decisions). It might also be possible to use this process as a starting point for community problem solving and consensus building efforts. As you work your way through the questionnaire, you may find it helpful to consider the questions in light of the Vermilion / Silver Cliff scenario. Use of this scenario allows you to avoid making politically sensitive statements about ongoing policy conflicts in which you are involved. The scenario also creates a common history, which, at least for the purposes of this exercise, is not subject to debate. This makes it easier to focus on the underlying issues without getting caught up in the details of an ongoing conflict. spacer |
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Copyright © 2001 Conflict Research Consortium Contact: Guy
Burgess
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