Hear It Their Way: Micro-Invalidation and the Burden of "Articulateness". (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hudson, Monika L.; Hunter, Keith O.
• Is Part Of: Management teaching review. Volume 5:Number 4(2020)
• Page Start: 290
• Page End: 301
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: communications -- micro-invalidations -- unintended bias; Management -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Executives -- Training of -- Periodicals; Organizational behavior -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 658.007
• DOI: 10.1177/2379298119877552
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2379-2981

Abstract

Given the unconscious nature of many micro-invalidations, conversations about them easily devolve into cycles of accusation, defensiveness, and recrimination. To better understand the specific effects of micro-invalidations, this interactive exercise emphasizes listening, hearing, and empathizing with use of the statement, "You are so articulate." By stressing and analyzing different segments of this frequently used sentence, learners are presented with an opportunity to consider both sides of oral messaging—the intent of the sender as well as the receipt and interpretation of the receiver. Both intended and unintended consequences are analyzed, opening deeper discussions about the origins and implications of our reactions to other people and their remarks.