Conflict Resolution

Pregnancy is a wonderful and joyous experience. In my case it also was full of uncontrollable emotions. About 9 months ago, I was 7 months pregnant with my daughter. I had already decided on her name, but her father asked if he assist in her naming. Reluctantly, I told him yes. My family had already feel in love with her name so they were a little upset that her first name would be changed. When I thought we had finally decided on a name, I posted on Facebook that our daughter's name would be "Ashtyn Omega Ratliffe", immediately my family and others stared commenting on how that did not like the name and it was ugly. I rudely told them that they could all shut up and when they had children (or more children) that they could name their own child. I also rudely told them that Andrew and I made our child and since they had no part in her conception their opinion did not mean anything to me (my choice of words were different but hey I was emotional :) ).  Something as small as my daughter's name caused confusion and conflict in my family. I ended up not speaking to my sister for a week and blocked her from my Facebook page. Eventually we all apologized and began speaking again. After all of this, her father ended up saying that he did not tell me that he wanted to name her "Ashytn". Apparently my pregnancy affected my hearing as well, so that entire disagreement was for nothing.

After reviewing this weeks resources, I realized that this situation could have been handled much differently. First, I should have respected my families opinion and we could have agreed to disagree. I knew that her name would be decided upon my myself and her father so I should have never let the opinions of others upset me. Had I been respectful,my family would have reciprocated the behavior and we all would have responded in a rational manner. Secondly, I could have said how I felt but in a less defensive and rude manner. I can honestly say that I was an emotionally unstable pregnant woman, but I should have learned how to better handle my feelings.

By the way we ended up naming our daughter "Andrea Omega" and everyone loves her name, as well as her!

LaQuasia: The Commuincator

Based upon my results, I was stunned that I scored a 62 on the verbal aggression quiz. I'm not sure if I misunderstood the wording, but I always give respect and would prefer to back down, then engage in arguments or debates, even if it is considered inoffensive. I do not engage in confusion, therefore I do what is necessary to stay away from it.  My sister and supervisor scored me in the in the low category (37 and 41), which is still slightly outside of my character.


Even though, I scored low and moderate in the aggressive listening category the descriptions are allowing me to realize that backing down is not always the best tactic. I can respectfully argue my point without insulting one's viewpoint or character. In addition, I can also learn to put personal feelings aside to prevent my trustworthiness from effecting my judgement. Being an easy going and people person, I can admit that at times I allow others to impact my judgement. I must learn when and where to draw the line, especially if it ever begins to effect my professional judgement.


I can utilize mild forms of aggressive behavior, especially within my professional world. As a Early Childhood professional, I am also an advocate for the rights of young children. Therefore, there may be times where I may have to professionally and respectfully debate/argue with someone who is for cutting funds or programs. Public speaking is one of my strong features. Apart of my job description calls for me to provide trainings/workshops to childcare providers. I am able to utilize my strong attribute to aide in the advancement of the ECE field. 


Effective communication is important in professional and personal life because we all come into contact with people everyday. If we are going to collaborate and communicate, why not do it an a manner that will yeild positive results in all settings and circumstances. 

Week 3

Over this short span of time, I have learned what it entails to communicative effectively with others. The following three strategies will continue to be utilized by me when communicating with parents, providers, and children.

1. Platinum rule- Instead of treating people the way I would want to be treated, I'm going to place myself into their position and treat them the way that they would want to be treated. This will allow me to view the context of the conversation from the other person's view.It allows me to think before I speak and to be respectful at all times.

2. Listening- A conversation takes two or more people. Therefore, it can not be dominated by one person. In order to communicate, one must be able to close their mouth at times and let the other person talk. In addition, you must also listen attentively to what he or she is speaking about. By listening attentively I will know how to appropriately respond. 

3. Be aware facial expression and body language- These two forms of nonverbal communication are imperative and can make or beak a conversation. Eye contact is important and shows the speaker that you are listening and that your attention is not elsewhere. 

Week 2

As we go throughout our daily lives, we must interact with others in some way. Whether its verbal or non-verbally, our words and actions will work in our favor or work against us.  For the purposes of this assignment, I DVR'ed the show "House". There were 8 main characters. Five of the eight were younger medical students or first year doctors. There was an older man around 50, who I assumed was the boss because he walked around the hospital with the medical students and was also instructed them in a small classroom. There was also two other doctors, one a woman and the other a man, both who seem to have high positions within the hospital. Based upon their nonverbal communication all of the characters did not get along with or either had varying opinions from the older male doctor. The older male doctor seemed to have a "know it all" attitude and is very sarcastic.

After watching the show with the volume on, I realized that some of my assumptions were correct. the 5 younger characters were taking up residence at this hospital. The older man was the main character Dr. House.  Dr. House, along with the 5 residents, and other doctors worked in the high risk or intensive care unit of the hospital. Throughout the episode House displayed sarcastic behavior towards his colleagues and towards the patients.This show did not interest me, therefor it was not easy for me to understand or get into. However had I been watching Law and Order: SVU, I would have been able to tell you the relationship the characters had with one another as well as how the interacted and communicated with each other and those that they came into contact with. 


My "aha" moment came when I realized that even though House was sarcastic and disrespectful, his services and expertise come highly recommended. In addition, his colleagues respected him, even though they did not agree with him.

Week 1

In regards to competent communicators there are many people who come to mind. However, for the purposes of this blog I believe that my pastor would be the best person to use an example. Pastor Darrel "BJ" Gibson is not only a pastor, he is also a member of the Scotland County School Board. Because he carries various titles, the way in which BJ communicates varies depending upon the targeted audience, purpose, and setting.

During morning worship, BJ delivers his message by providing a topic and a scripture that his message derives from. In addition, he will use additional scriptures to provide validity to his message. During his message, BJ preaches with enthusiasm, while also utilizing a serious tone or demeanor. Depending upon the message, he may some time have to tell a story that may make us laugh, but it relates to the message. As a member of the School Board, I can imagine that BJ's demeanor is serious and that he speaks utilizing factual information that will be beneficial to the success of students. Because BJ graduated from elementary, middle, and high school in Scotland County, I'm sure that he is able to refer to his experiences as a student to better justify his point. A interesting and key trait of BJ, is that he is able to impact the the youth and young adults, as well as those who are over 35 years of age. My pastor is only 23 years old, but he possess the wisdom and maturity of someone twice his age. When BJ speaks you have no choice but to listen! 

I would model communications after BJ because he knows how to communicate effectively. BJ knows which type of behavior to display based upon the setting and intended audience. In addition, BJ knows how to empathize, comfort, and encourage others.