Sensitivity Training
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Introduction to Sensitivity Training Overview Sensitivity Training = OD Techniques / Interventions for bringing about change Sensitivity Training = Diversity Training = Laboratory training = Encounter Group = T-Group = Methods of changing behavior through unstructured group interaction Other Methods = Survey Feedback, Process consultation, team building etc Definition Sensitivity training is making people understand about themselves and others reasonably, which is done by developing in them social sensitivity and behavioral flexibility Social sensitivity in one word is empathy. It is ability of an individual to sense what others feel and think from their own point of view. Behavioral flexibility is ability to behave suitably in light of understanding.
Transcript of Sensitivity Training
Introduction to Sensitivity Training
Overview
Sensitivity Training = OD Techniques / Interventions for bringing about change
Sensitivity Training = Diversity Training = Laboratory training = Encounter Group = T-Group = Methods of changing behavior through unstructured group interaction
Other Methods = Survey Feedback, Process consultation, team building etc
Definition
Sensitivity training is making people understand about themselves and others reasonably, which is done by developing in them social sensitivity and behavioral flexibility
Social sensitivity in one word is empathy. It is ability of an individual to sense what others feel and think from their own point of view.
Behavioral flexibility is ability to behave suitably in light of understanding.
Objectives of Sensitivity Training
To help people understand themselves better
To create better understanding of others
To gain insight into the group process
To develop specific behavioral skills.
Primary & Secondary Dimensions of Diversity
Sexual Orientatio
nRace
Gender
Physical Qualities
Age
Ethnicity
Work Backgroun
d
Income Geographic
Location
Parental
Status
Marital Status
Education
Military Experience
Religious Beliefs
Loden and
Rosener
Diversity Statement of DHL
Procedure of Sensitivity Training
Sensitivity Training History
Altering fundamental belief systems of enemy soldiers.
WW-II Psychologists in USA and Britain were used by the military to help soldiers deal with Traumatic Stress Disorders (Shell Shock).
J. L. Moreno’s “Psychodrama” in 1914 .
Kurt Lewin first T-Group in 1946.
NTL (National Training Laboratories-1947)
Sensitivity Training History
Development of Group Therapy as a treatment techniques.
Focus was on how people interact as they form groups.
Mid 1950 and early 1960 - various methods were consolidated.
Shift from Social Psychology to Clinical Psychology.
Two distinct camps/ approaches – Organisational Skills and Personal Growth.
Sensitivity Training History
1960 new people and organisations joined the movement.
It became a cultural force and a social phenomenon.
Organisational Approach – focus on corporate personnel.
Late 1960 and 1970 - decline and transformed into traditional therapy and training techniques.
Diversified communities and workforces to better coexist and relate to each other.
Theme-Centered Interaction (TCI)Developed by Ruth Cohn - a psychoanalyst and educationist in mid-
sixties
Successful Method
Leading Groups of All Kinds
Synchronizing differences to Work Together Creatively
Emphasis on ‘Living Learning’
Re-thinking Pedagogies – contributes to develop conscious, responsible, balanced individuals
To build purposive, collaborative and successful groups, organisations and enterprises.
The Methodology Seating arrangement in Cirlce
Beginning… At the beginning of the day… I feel… and I expect… I… I…
How do you see your life today
My Values… how they were formed…
Draw your Ideal Workplace
Childhood…Teenage…Adolescent… - people who played influential role in shaping your life
Blind Group…
At the End of the Day... I feel…
T-Group / Encounter Group / Group-Dynamics Training / Laboratory Training
Role Plays
Inter Group Competitive Exercise
Self-insight Questionnaire
Theory Sessions / Lectures
Background Readings / Books
Panel Discussions
Audio-visual Aids / Movies
Present Day Practices & Applications
Present Day Practices & Applications
To help people understand themselves better.
To create better understanding of others.
To gain insight into the group process
To develop specific behavioural skills.
Pro’s & Con’s
Pro’s
Increased interpersonal competence - skill in handling interpersonal and group relationships toward more productive and satisfying relationships
Better understanding and changed attitude towards organizational & individual goals, role and organizational dynamics
Con’s
Restrains people from taking harsh decisions
Less effective when applied to technical professions
A stressful situation created during the training can tear apart people instead of bringing them together.
SUMMARY
Successful leaders are self-aware and as such have the ability to control themselves and empathize with others.
The ability to make others feel comfortable in awkward situations is a true art.
