In which of the following situations is it MOST appropriate to deemphasize negatives?
When the reader must correct a dangerous practice
When you are denying a customer's request for credit
When you are fining a company for polluting the environment
When you are hiding the negative news so you do not appear dishonest or unethical
What do you think?
Why would you deemphasize negatives in that situation (b)? Don't you think a customer needs to know what is wrong with his/her credit in order to work on improving it?
Well I believe d sounds more correct,
Let me expound on one: YOu are hiding negative news or information so you don't appear dishonest?
This sounds like CAR101 for used car salesmen.
I agree, Bob. I'm bothered by the suspicion of unethical shenanigans in d.
I think b. is the best answer. Although the customer should be told why is application for credit is refused, it should be done in such a way that negative angle is deemphasized.
To determine which situation is most appropriate for deemphasizing negatives, let's analyze each option:
1. When the reader must correct a dangerous practice: In this situation, it is important to emphasize the negatives to capture the seriousness of the matter. By clearly highlighting the potential risks or negative consequences of the dangerous practice, the reader is more likely to understand and take appropriate action.
2. When you are denying a customer's request for credit: When delivering negative news like denying a customer's request for credit, it is crucial to be clear and direct. Although you might want to soften the blow by using tactful language, it is generally not appropriate to deemphasize the negatives, as it may lead to confusion or misunderstandings.
3. When you are fining a company for polluting the environment: It is vital to emphasize the negatives in this situation. By highlighting the company's negative impact on the environment, the seriousness of the offense is conveyed, potentially encouraging change and accountability.
4. When you are hiding the negative news so you do not appear dishonest or unethical: Deemphasizing negatives for the purpose of hiding negative news is generally not appropriate. Transparency and honesty are important values in any ethical communication. While it's important to consider the best way to present negative news, completely hiding or downplaying it may be seen as deceptive or unethical.
Based on the analysis above, the situation where it is most appropriate to deemphasize negatives is not presented among the options given. It is generally better to communicate negatives clearly and honestly, taking into account the importance of transparency and conveying the seriousness of certain situations.