Let’s be real: almost everyone has enjoyed a quirky Buzzfeed quiz! These quizzes are addictive because they make self-discovery fun and weirdly accurate. What if we could bring that same energy into one of the most challenging parts of our job as student staff members?
Personal assessments aren’t just enjoyable wastes of time. When used with intentionality, they can be a powerful tool to help residents better understand themselves and each other in moments of tension. When residents are in conflict, it’s easy for emotions to take over. These tools help residents articulate how they process conflict, how they communicate, and what they need from others. Introducing a low-stakes, reflective tool like a personality or communication-style quiz can shift the energy. Instead of “me vs. them,” the focus becomes on collaboration to work through differences.
First, decide how to best introduce your assessment:
- One-on-Ones – This is best when you feel an individual resident is struggling with conflict. You can say, “Hey, want to take a quick quiz that might help us figure out how you handle conflict?”
- Roommate Agreement Meetings – This is a preventative measure you can take to get each room off to a great start!
- Roommate/Suite Mediations – This is a great way to get conversation going for a group conflict. You can say, “Sometimes understanding our styles helps smooth things out. Would you be open to doing a quick assessment together?”
- Programming – For conflicts that involve a large portion of your residents, or if you feel like there is an emerging trend across your community, consider hosting a “What’s Your Conflict Style?” event.
Here are some assessments you can use in the right moments:
- Conflict Style Assessment – This will help residents understand their default approach to conflict and how it may clash or complement another’s style. These are free and printouts are available online!
- DiSC Assessment – This focuses on behavior in the community. It is best for group dynamics.
- Enneagram – This explores one’s core motivations and fears. It is helpful when conflicts feel personal.
- Love Languages – This can come surprisingly useful when roommates are clashing over gestures of appreciation and respect.
- MBTI (Myers-Briggs) – This offers insight into how someone takes in information and makes decisions. It’s great for misunderstandings rooted in communication. There are great, free online versions!
- StrengthsFinder – This builds appreciation for the unique strengths each person brings to a group dynamic. The official assessment is not free, so discuss with your supervisor if your department allows for the purchase of codes for your residents.
Using these tools can be enlightening, but they’re not fool-proof. Keep these tips in mind:
- Always consult with your supervisor – There are appropriate and inappropriate applications of assessments like these. It is best for you to reach out to your supervisor before advising your residents to take them!
- You’re Not a Therapist – Don’t interpret results like a professional. You’re there to facilitate reflection, not diagnose behavior. Some of the above assessments certify professionals to facilitate them!
- Assessments Aren’t Absolutes – These tools show tendencies, not truths. Discourage labelling like “you’re an ENFJ, so obviously you’d react this way.”
- Use the Right Tool at the Right Time – Don’t drop a personality quiz in the middle of a heated argument. Introduce them when emotions aren’t running high!
- Opt-In Only – Always ask for consent and never require residents to take an assessment. Keep it low-pressure and voluntary!
