You are participating in a group discussion. Several peers have spoken before you, and you completely disagree with them.

Question

Which ways would be a positive approach for responding? Check all that apply.

Tell the other participants that they don’t know what they’re talking about.
Ask the moderator to stop the others from talking since they have no evidence.
Explain your viewpoint and give a fact to support your opinion
Ask your peers to explain their reasoning, listen closely, and respond with your view.
Look at your notes to find an example that shows why you disagree.

Answer 1

In a group discussion where you disagree with several peers, positive approaches for responding would include:

• Explain your viewpoint and give a fact to support your opinion. This allows you to present your perspective in a constructive manner.

• Ask your peers to explain their reasoning, listen closely, and respond with your view. Engaging in dialogue and seeking to understand their perspective can lead to a more productive discussion.

• Look at your notes to find an example that shows why you disagree. Providing evidence or examples can strengthen your argument and help clarify your position.

The other options, such as telling participants they don’t know what they’re talking about or asking the moderator to stop others from talking, are not positive approaches and may lead to a hostile atmosphere.