Dealing with Hot Topics With Karl A. Slaikeu, Ph.D.

April 16, 23, 30, May 7, 2023

Sponsored by Preferred Path Ministry at Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church (WHPC)

News and social media assault us daily with “hot topics” that divide and create conflict among co-workers, families, friends, and neighbors.

Whether (and how) to teach Critical Race Theory (CRT) in public schools

Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at work

Gender Affirming Treatment for Minors

Abortion in the aftermath of Roe v. Wade

Immigration at the Southern Border

The list goes on . . .

Depending on the place and people, these topics may seem “too hot to handle.”  

Fortunately, there are tools growing from scripture and behavioral science that offer an alternative to shouting matches, fearful retreat, or denial.

On the Sundays between Easter and Mother’s Day 2023, join us as we examine and practice four tools borrowed from the Preferred Path Core Course that can lead to understanding and breaking new ground across the political and cultural divides.

Session 1, April 16, 2023: Preferred Path Tool

The high stakes and “false starts” in confronting hot topics in public and private life. Four options for dealing with conflict, how to order and use them, even when the “other side” is not cooperating.

Session 2: Conflict Grid Tool

How to unbundle hot topics into component parts (interests, facts, alternatives on which parties disagree), and reassemble key elements to create “integrative solutions.” The role of acknowledgement/apology/punishment, restitution, corrective action, and forgiveness.

Session 3: Negotiation and Mediation Tools

Tips from professionals on how to reach agreement even when you are “miles apart”.

Session 4: Interpersonal Peacemaking Tool

Following Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 5 and 18 (“go to” opponents to reconcile and confront wrongdoing), we will define, demonstrate, and practice ways to “initiate” and to “respond” during difficult conversations.

About the Presenter

Karl A. Slaikeu, Ph.D. is a psychologist, mediator, and author, with over three decades of experience helping individuals and groups deal with “hot topics.” The founder of Preferred Path Conflict Resolution, he is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv), the University of Nebraska (BA), and the State University of New York at Buffalo (MA, PhD). He currently serves as Workplace Violence Prevention Program Coordinator for the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System and teaches Negotiation in the Jindal School of Management, University of Texas at Dallas. With his wife, Diane, he has been a member of Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church (WHPC) since 1983.