The Paradox Game

Abstract

This article explores the many facets of paradoxical communication in interpersonal encounters Several issues are explained in considerable detail. First, the nature ofpara doxical communication and how it might adequately be distinguished from other interpersonal dilemmas is discussed Second, a structured interpersonal exercise is presented which provides students with experiential learning in how to identify and deal effectively with many subtle manifestations of paradoxical communication. Third, variations on the same paradoxical theme are suggested for application to special audiences. Finally, the phenomenon of paradoxical communication is placed into a paradigm of social power and interpersonal influence

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