Avoiding Memory Biases: How the Right Questions Can Lead to Unbiased Self-Discovery
Imagine this scenario: You witness a car accident and are called to testify in court. The judge asks, "How fast was the car going when it passed the red building on Main Street?" Yet, there's no red building on Main Street. Research suggests that most people would confidently state the car passed a red building, even though it wasn't there. This is due to a phenomenon called reconstructive memory.
Coaching for Clarity, Not Confirmation
Human memory isn't like a video camera; it rebuilds memories based on personal interpretations and existing belief systems. We store information in a way that makes sense to us, often fitting it into pre-existing mental frameworks called schemas. These schemas help us predict the world around us, but they can also distort unfamiliar or unexpected information. Studies by Bartlett (1932), Loftus (1987), and Rubin (1977) all point to how individuals reconstruct memories to align with their personal beliefs.
This raises a crucial point for coaches: Our clients' memories are shaped by their unique experiences, beliefs, and interpretations. So, how can we navigate this to facilitate effective coaching?
The Art of Open-Ended Questions
As coaches, we rely heavily on open-ended questions. These questions encourage clients to explore their experiences and perspectives in detail, fostering self-discovery and critical thinking. Here are some examples:
By asking open-ended questions, we avoid leading the client towards specific answers or interpretations. We empower them to share their unique narratives without the risk of influencing their memory reconstruction.
Being Mindful of Biases
Beyond using open-ended questions, coaches also need to be aware of their own biases and assumptions. We may unconsciously interpret a client's words or silences in a certain way. Here's how to maintain objectivity:
Active listening: Pay close attention to what the client is saying, both verbally and nonverbally.
Paraphrasing and reflecting: Restate what you hear the client say to ensure understanding.
Avoiding judgment: Create a safe space for exploration without judgment or criticism.
Unveiling the True Story Together
By utilizing open-ended questions and remaining mindful of memory biases, coaches can create a space for clients to explore their experiences authentically. This collaborative approach allows us to work with the client's reconstructed memories, not against them, ultimately helping them gain valuable insights and navigate future challenges.
Ready to explore the power of open-ended questions in your coaching practice? Let's connect!
References
Bartlett, F.C. (1932). Remembering: A Study in Experimental and Social Psychology. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Loftus, E.F., Loftus, G.R., & Messo, J. (1987). Some facts about weapon focus. Law and Human Behavior, 11, 55-62.
Rubin, D. C. (1977). Very long-term memory for prose and verse, Journal of Verbal learning and Verbal Behavior, 16, 611-621.
