5d • General discussion
A Reflection on Neutrality
Hi Friends,
I wrote a reflection for Dr. Otto this week, then thought it might be a worthy discussion for the group. Below are some thoughts on an area I have been grappling with plus a few questions to you all on the matter. Looking forward to sharing thoughts together!
Faye
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The Canadian Sport Psychology Association code of Ethics defining Avoidance of Harm, asks that practitioners: "Are neutral while working with clients and refrain from imposing any religious, spiritual, political, or social beliefs."
This measure of avoiding harm can be a delicate line for a practitioner like myself who is oriented with Liberation Psychology foundations. Liberation Psychology practitioners are interested in, and positioned to support clients in the interrogation of oppressive systems related to their performance. In a recent case, a client perceived that they were being treated by their coach in a way that was insensitive to their race and cultural background. The client observed that they were being held to a standard that was relative to a common social trope that was harmful and related to her race.
Reflecting on this session, I can see how I was leaning toward demonstrating my own social and political views through my method of validating her experience. While I may not have outright offered my social or political opinions, my enthusiasm and interest in her observation may have implied my alignment. When I reflect upon maintaining neutrality, I do find there is a thinner line for those whose theoretical orientation is inherently political. Simply by understanding that one's performance experience is shaped by political and social influence, it could be said that there is inherently an absence of neutrality.
With that in mind, I have considerations for how I can retain the important elements of my theoretical orientation while delivering competent and neutral service to the client.
I am making the following considerations for maintaining objectivity while providing validation:
-Leaning more than I have been, into person centered consulting methods and allowing the client to "walk themselves" into the discovery, or through their personal interrogation.
-Be considerate of my expressions when clients are making discoveries that are politically or socially related. Realizing for example that an expression of excitement toward a statement can relay my personal political views.
-Being tempered with using examples to validate client experience, and instead support and encourage their own discovery. (For example, instead of saying: “yes, you're so right”, thank the client for shining the light on the issue.)
-Guide the interrogation by continuing to ask questions rather than offering thoughts. Validation can happen without comparison.
-Continue to remain critical of objective neutrality, particularly when validation may be in the client’s best interest in instances of overt oppression.
My greatest takeaway to humbly serve within our code of ethics, is to remember that my interest in social and political concerns is what led me to have a Liberation orientation yet, when working with clients I am creating a balance for those experiences to be honoured without imposition. While it is a work in progress I remain unapologetic in demonstrating validation, and through reflective practice, I will continue to notice and address this area of growth.
How might you consider validating social justice concerns for clients in consulting practice?
When is neutrality the best option?
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A Reflection on Neutrality
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