Beyond Right and Wrong: Understanding Differing Opinions and Perceptual Styles

May 26, 2010 - PRLog -- The unique perceptions that exist in the world can cause a multitude of relationship problems. One of the seven principles of Perceptual Style Theory (PST) states that everyone believes that their way of experiencing the world is the right way and (until they learn differently) the only way.  PST co-creator, Gary Jordan, Ph.D., says that understanding our individual perceptual style as well as those of others is the key to success. Dr. Jordan recently teamed up with colleague Lynda-Ross Vega on a 7-part series of articles on Perceptual Style Theory that aims to provide insight and tools for dealing with differing perceptions. The fourth article, My Way or the Highway: The Power of Perception is available online at www.YourTalentAdvantage.com

“People experience perceptual differences with others in the way they communicate, deal with conflict and determine what is important,” says Gary. “Without the knowledge of Perceptual Styles, all too often people assume these differences are a matter of right and wrong. When it comes down to it, explaining your point of view slowly and loudly will not change the perception of someone who’s Perceptual Style is different from yours.”

“It is vital to fully understanding and using your natural skills that you have confidence that your way of perceiving the world is the right way,” says Gary. “It is equally important to acknowledge that while it is the right way for you it’s not for everyone, and that in fact, there are five other Perceptual Styles that are equally right for those who have them.”

Perceptual Style Theory is a behavioral science theory created by Dr. Jordan and his colleague Lynda-Ross Vega. The pair spent 30 years researching and creating PST to help people make sense of the everyday differences they experience with others. PST is a tool that people can easily use to understand themselves and their natural gifts, while also gaining an appreciation for the value of differences and the gifts that other people possess.

“It is impossible to experience how other people perceive the world,” says Gary. “While you can and should gain an intellectual understanding and a sincere appreciation of perceptual differences, you cannot have the actual experience of someone else’s perception.”


“A vast array of natural skills and talents make you uniquely you, “he says. “Your Perceptual Style is at the core of them. You’ll gain tremendous satisfaction, meaning, success, and happiness doing more of what you do best.”

More information about Perceptual Style Theory is available at www.aciforcoaches.com.

Gary Jordan, Ph.D., has over 27 years of experience in clinical psychology, behavioral assessment, individual development, and coaching. He earned his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology – Berkeley.  He is co-creator of Perceptual Style Theory, a revolutionary psychological assessment system that teaches people how to unleash their deepest potentials for success. He’s a partner at Vega Behavioral Consulting, Ltd., a consulting firm that specializes in helping people discover their true skills and talents. www.aciforcoaches.com

# # #

Gary Jordan, Ph.D., has over 27 years of experience in clinical psychology, behavioral assessment, individual development, and coaching. Co-founder of Vega Behavioral Consulting, Ltd. www.aciforcoaches.com.