Basic Socializing Skills 101 from a Gerontology perspective Part IV
The fourth and final skill is called Integration. The act or instance of combining into an integral whole. (Webster’s) So now we have to pull all of our information together and actually attempt to institute change. Rather than discussing what integration is, I have decided to provide you with some case examples so you can see what integration actually looks like. The most important thing to remember at this stage is that you may or may not be correct in your findings.
The biggest mistake you can make is to be unwavering in your thoughts. Use all of the previous skills we have discussed, Attending, Empathy, and Confrontation before you begin to integrate your thoughts and feelings. Once you feel you have done this, ask the person if it is possible you are correct using an I statement. Example: I hear you saying you are having a lot of anxiety and are not comfortable about having to speak in front of a large crowd next week. You may get it right, you may not. Be prepared to accept either and move on. If you are not correct, continue to dialogue using the other skills until you think you can integrate again. Once the person confirms your integration, you have shown them you are a true listener!
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