Thursday, 14 March 2013

Reaction vs Response


Recently I came across an article which interestingly marked a difference between a reaction and a response. This prompted me to explore what actually these two are and what is the line that segregates them. To make it simple, reactions are mostly destructive and are an emotional or physical response while responses are made after a clear thought and are highly appreciated.
Let us consider a scenario where your child breaks a brand new watch of yours. What will be yours – reaction or response?
Reaction - Beat the child and scold him for the act.
Response- Explain the child about the price of that watch and tell him how much you like it and how much you are disturbed by the act.
The former is an immediate reaction while the latter is a positive approach. The next time the child happens to touch anything that is precious, will you think he will try to break it? He would definitely think of its value and your love for it.
Of course, it is very difficult to respond since we human are tuned to react immediately. It is always better to cultivate this habit of response rather than reaction and I am  working on it too…..

2 comments:

  1. your example might work in a controlled environment.but not in today's world where children are constantly exposed to the use and throw syndrome,and instant gratification.

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    1. I agree but a little attitude change can bring in a lot of effect on the child's behaviour!Why don't we try? I am also trying on it....

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