Four Common Perceptual Problems

As I continue to study “perception,” I am amazed at its role, particularly in our decision-making processes. We make tons of decisions every single day, without giving much if  any consideration to our “perception,” which is often guiding our decision.

What is perception?

Perception is the process of making meaningful sense of the things around us using our senses, i.e., vision, hearing, taste, olfactory (smell), and touch. To maintain our sanity, we need to make sense of our surroundings in order to function effectively in them. The more accurate our sense-making is, the better we will function.

A good example is changing work industries. If you have ever changed industries, you know what its like to go into a new workplace with little or no understanding about how things are done or why. It can be a stressful learning period that gets better as time moves forward and you begin to understand the culture and other things around you. Eventually, you begin to feel much more comfortable because you have a better understanding and sense of the environment.

Imagine that your perception, or sense-making is inaccurate. As you attempt to maneuver your environment, you will not be as successful because you do not see things as they really are. Your perception is off.

There are four common problems about perception that any leader needs to be aware of.

The first common problem is stereotyping, which involves mentally assigning individuals to a group, and attributing certain characteristics you believe about that group. From an organizational perspective and if your traits are wrong – which is always the case with stereotyping – two things are likely to happen. First, you may wrongfully prevent that person from advancing because of your inaccurate assessment. Secondly, you may deny your organization the true gifts and talents that person has. The solution?  Become aware of your own biases, and get to know the person for yourself.

A second perceptual problem is called “the halo effect,” which is when we look at another person or thing and attribute traits to that person or thing based on what we see, although the two have nothing to do with one another. A good example would be movie stars. We see them in certain roles and picture them in real life as being the same as the role they play, when in reality, they may be totally opposite. In this case, we are making wrong assumptions based on wrong information. The solution?  Learn to remain neutral and practice withholding judgment until you have relevant information about the person.

There is also perceptual projection, which is when we incorrectly believe that others have the same needs, values and beliefs that we have, so we make decisions for them based on our own needs, values and beliefs. The solution? Learn to be more respectful of individuality by staying openminded and being willing to listen to others as they tell you what their needs, values and beliefs are. Listening provides correct information and even helps us re-consider our own beliefs.

The fourth common perceptual problem is called, perceptual defense, which is when we create blind spots in our own perceptual assessments by avoiding unpleasant or harmful things – or even people. Ignoring does not change or lessen the threat, it simply gives it more power.  The solution? Work on being more courageous and honest. Even when you do not know exactly what to do, recognize that answers often come when we are honest and courageous.

Written by Coach DianaD