The three steps to perception checking include the following:

Step One: Objectively describe what you see and/or hear (state the obvious)

Step Two: Infer what you think is happening

Step Three: Ask for confirmation

Sequentially click on each step to view a real life example of perception checking.

The goal of perception checking is not to prove that your initial perception is correct, but to further explore the thoughts and feelings of the other person.

Why? This technique allows for the reduction of misunderstanding of another's feelings. It also allows for the other person to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings.

Perception Checking is the process of verifying your understanding of some message or situation or feeling to reduce uncertainty.

Click on the "three steps" link to the left to read how one would verify another's understanding.

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Define "perception checking"
• Identify the three steps of "perception checking"
• Recall the goal of perception checking

Click on the links to the left to explore "perception."