Exploring Psychological Diversity: Social Differences Explained

It is impossible to experience how other people perceive the world. 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.

This is the topic of the fourth article in our series of articles on the seven principles of Perceptual Style Theory or PST.  The fourth principle of PST is:  Everyone believes that their way of experiencing the world is the right way and (until they learn differently) the only way!

When people first learn about their Perceptual Style, they have a “wow” experience. As they read the description of their Perceptual Style they are surprised by how well the description fits them. It opens their eyes to things about themselves that they take for granted. They also experience a sense of deep validation. It really is an amazing experience.

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. 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.

People experience perceptual differences with others in the way they communicate, deal with conflict, determine what is important, etc. Without the knowledge of Perceptual Styles, all too often people assume these differences are a matter of right and wrong – I’m right and you’re wrong. And when that happens, resolution becomes a battle of wills and a lot of time, effort, and emotion is wasted on arguing. And nobody really wins – it’s usually a case where one side just gives up or gives in. Much like the encounter with someone who does not speak your language, explaining your point of view slowly and loudly will not change the perception of someone who’s Perceptual Style is different from yours.

All six Perceptual Styles are normal and healthy ways of perceiving the world. None is better than or more accurate in its perception than any other. Each is, however, an incomplete view of the world. Without input from others with different Perceptual Styles there are aspects of any situation that you will miss.

Your Perceptual Style is at the core of a vast array of natural skills and talents that make you uniquely you. Claiming your natural talents and doing more of what you do best will bring you tremendous satisfaction, meaning, success, and happiness. And because we all thrive best in community, the richness of life expands 5-fold when you include the unique viewpoints and contributions of people who have Perceptual Styles different from yours.