QuestioningAssumptions

//Source: Greenwald (1999)//

An assumption is treating information as if it were true without finding out whether it really is. If you're aware that you're ignoring an idea or alternative because you believe it won't work or isn't true, an assumption you are making may be the reason for it. Assumptions can be so ingrained that, even when consciously trying to test them, they aren't "visible" to us. Narrow, rigid thinking such as "you can't apply what happens to rats in a research study to people" interferes with seeing possibilities. Questioning assumptions is especially helpful where people seem to be getting "all the same ideas". First, list all the facts, attributes or features of a situation. Then negate, eliminate, or think of the opposite of each of these facts, elements and attributes. Chances are you'll be in a better position to identify more assumptions you probably didn't even know you were making.

(Original page by Mary Frangie)