No More Why

Ever wondered what goes on in the brain when you ask a question with “why” in the beginning?

For most of us, we know immediately.

Our brain senses conflict and engages our natural defense system.

These defense mechanisms vary in terms of how they are activated. Their primary purpose is to help the mind cope with situations that may cause stress or strong emotional feelings.

Ask, “Why did you do that?”

Even said in the softest way possible, this question still engages a feeling that conflict is present and enacts the brain to defend its actions often leading to “deflection.”

Asking WHY causes the brain to associate the intent of the question to focus blame. But, what we wanted was to get a resolve, to find an answer, even pave the way to building cohesion. We simply wanted to understand.

Beginning a question with “why” can sometimes be counterproductive, especially in situations where the goal is to foster open communication, understanding, and collaboration. While “why” questions can be effective in certain contexts, they carry the risk of triggering defensive responses and hindering constructive dialogue. Here are some reasons why a person might consider alternatives to starting questions with “why”:

‘WHY’ QUESTIONS INCITE DEFLECTION.

Defense mechanisms like “deflection” are unconscious ways the brain engages without the person being fully aware it is happening.

When we deflect, our brain redirects the focused blame or criticism to something or someone else. It is a very natural reaction and most if not all have experienced it at one time or another.

Deflection is the brain’s way of preserving our self image.

A defense mechanism is a psychological strategy that individuals unconsciously use to cope with stress, anxiety, and emotional conflict. These mechanisms operate without conscious awareness and are employed to protect the mind from feelings or thoughts that are too difficult to tolerate.

Defense mechanisms are considered normal and are part of the human psyche.

However, the irony lies in the fact that, more often than not, when we ask “why,” our intention is not to attribute blame but to seek understanding, resolution, and perhaps pave the way for cohesive communication. Unfortunately, the brain’s automatic response hinders this genuine quest for comprehension.

Avoid or reduce conflict through cohesion and self-discovery. No more why questions.

‘WHY’ QUESTIONS ELICIT DEFENISVENESS

When someone is asked, “Why did you do that?” it can activate a defensive response. The person may feel accused or criticized, leading to defensiveness or a tendency to deflect blame.

‘WHY’ QUESTIONS CAN BE PERCEIVED AS JUDGMENTAL

“Why” questions can be interpreted as judgmental or confrontational, making the other person feel interrogated rather than engaged in a genuine conversation.

‘WHY’ QUESTIONS LIMIT INSIGHTFUL RESPONSES

People may struggle to articulate the reasons behind their actions when faced with a “why” question. This can limit the depth of insight and hinder meaningful communication.

‘WHY’ QUESTIONS CAN BE ASSOCIATED WITH BLAME

The word “why” can be associated with seeking blame or fault. This association may make individuals hesitant to provide honest answers, fearing repercussions or judgment.

‘WHY’ QUESTIONS TRIGGER RESISTANCE

Some individuals may resist answering “why” questions due to the perceived challenge to their autonomy or competence. This resistance can impede the flow of communication.

After years of working with individuals through personal development, training research, communication courses, and personal experience, I’ve developed a proven method to reduce the potential for conflict.

Introducing the S.E.E.D. Methodology, a Cohesive Communication Solution

This four-step process is fully explained in my Cohesive Communication seminars and workshops and a valuable tool my coaching clients are taught to use for conflict resolution.

The S.E.E.D. formula involves the art of engaging self-discovery with others as a principle component. S.E.E.D. is based upon the premise of asking open-ended, non-leading questions in place of asking why.

Using this approach still gets to the WHY without asking WHY. It’s a clever way to trick the brain from ignoring its primary defense mechanism and engaging in a conversation without the association of blame or fear one has done something wrong.

For instance, using questions that begin with “what,” “how,” or “tell me about” can often lead to more detailed and thoughtful responses. These types of questions invite the person to share their perspective and contribute to a collaborative and constructive conversation.

Once you learn the S.E.E.D. formula, it is easy to replicate over and over again. It’s application is great for coaching, mentoring, and offering criticism without inducing or creating conflict. The S.E.E.D. formula applies to any conversation regardless of topic when the intent is to seek information.

Ultimately, the choice of how to frame questions depends on the specific context, the relationship between the individuals involved, and the desired outcome of the conversation. Being mindful of the potential impact of “why” questions and considering alternative approaches can contribute to more effective communication and conflict resolution.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Troy Hall is a speaker is the author of the Best-Selling Titles, Cohesion Culture: Proven Principles to RetainYour Top Talent, and Fanny Rules: A Mother’s Leadership Lessons That Never Grow Old. Talent retention expert who travels the globe teaching and motivating C-Suite Executives and Senior HR Leaders on how to retain their top talent. With his Ph.D. in Global Leadership, he has been honored to present at conferences across the United States, as well as in the United Kingdom, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. He is also the Chief Strategy Officer for South Carolina Federal Credit Union, a multi-billion dollar financial institution that consistently wins awards as one of the "Best Places to Work."

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