Does Handling School Environment Cases Erode Trust? –…

Part 1: The Challenge of Trust

Imagine entering a roundabout a bit faster than you should, locking eyes with a driver approaching from the left. In that split second, you assess that you can accelerate and avoid a collision, but only if you assume the other driver doesn't do the same. Fortunately, both of you are more interested in moving forward safely than in colliding.

This scenario isn't about trust but about calculated decisions based on self-interest and awareness. Similarly, when dealing with frustrated or angry parents, do we approach the situation like navigating a roundabout—aiming to minimize personal risk and maximize benefit—or do we see it as an opportunity to build trust?

Building trust is challenging, and sometimes it's hard to hit the brakes. Just as becoming a skilled driver requires practice, so does developing trust-building skills in difficult meetings. How do you and your colleagues train for trust-building in interactions with parents?

Both parties represent the same child but from different perspectives. Educators see the student as a learner within a group, focusing on education and development. Parents view their child as unique and vulnerable, filled with emotions, expectations, and, in school environment cases, distress.

We can't fully understand each other's experiences. Parents can't entirely grasp the responsibility educators have for all students and staff, and vice versa. While it might seem easier to remain detached and rational, this approach can lead to increased frustration and mistrust from parents, which is neither trust-building nor beneficial.

Therefore, we can't just accelerate and move on. We must accept the situation, even if it's uncomfortable, and be fully present. This means being mindful of our words, tone, body language, and the meeting's structure. Emotional reactions can easily derail our intentions to remain composed and trust-building. A sarcastic remark from a parent can make us defensive, leading to irritation that further erodes trust.

To prevent this, it's wise to have a colleague present and to practice handling such meetings. A frustrated parent might show up unexpectedly, and we should be prepared to respond appropriately.

IMTEC offers training scenarios through "På tilliten løs!" (On the Edge of Trust). 

Written by: Jostein Alberti-Espenes Last updated: 11.06.24