Separate Impact From Intent
Use SBI/SBII to describe conflict behavior without assigning motive.
Intent does not erase impact. The SBI/SBII pattern starts with Situation, Behavior, and Impact, then inquires about Intent. It turns a heated accusation into observable data: where and when it happened, what was said or done, what effect it had, and what the other person was trying to accomplish. The mechanism is defensiveness reduction. In conflict, people argue over motives because motives feel morally loaded and are hard to disprove. Observable behavior gives both sides something testable. Impact matters because a behavior can damage coordination even when intent was positive. Intent inquiry matters because it restores dignity and prevents the…
Sign up free — one personalized lesson every day, matched to your role and goals.
Already have an account? Sign in