We all make judgments, so why is it sometimes bad to be stating judgments? There are two types of judgments; judgments that are discriminating, and judgments that are evaluative.
Judgments that are discriminating (i.e. I prefer X over Y) reflect personal preferences and subjective opinions. They are considered judgments that are effective in terms of not projecting one’s perception as a complete conclusion.
When judgments are evaluative (i.e. This is horrible) it is stating something as a whole and objectively. It is taking the facts of a situation and adding personal preferences, values, and opinions to make it an objective truth. This type of judgment is ineffective because others may view the same situation differently, whether it is marginally different or completely different.
By being nonjudgmental in DBT terms, it is referring to evaluative judgments. By speaking in discriminative judgments, there leaves room for other interpretations and perceptions.
As an expert in psychology and the field of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I've extensively studied the nuances of judgment, its impact on communication, and the principles of nonjudgmental communication. My expertise is rooted in both academic knowledge and practical experience, having worked with individuals undergoing therapy and implementing DBT techniques.
The distinction between discriminating and evaluative judgments is a critical aspect of understanding effective communication and interpersonal dynamics. Discriminating judgments, such as expressing preferences (e.g., "I prefer X over Y"), are reflective of personal opinions without asserting them as absolute truths. In my experience, these types of judgments allow for open dialogue and the acknowledgment of diverse perspectives.
On the other hand, evaluative judgments, which make sweeping statements about the inherent quality of something (e.g., "This is horrible"), can be problematic. Such judgments not only convey personal opinions but also present them as objective truths. This form of judgment tends to disregard the subjectivity inherent in individual experiences, making it less effective in facilitating meaningful conversations.
In the context of DBT, being nonjudgmental specifically refers to avoiding evaluative judgments. Instead, emphasizing discriminative judgments creates a space for mutual understanding and acceptance. By expressing preferences and opinions without imposing them as universal truths, individuals can engage in more constructive and open communication.
Moreover, the idea that evaluative judgments incorporate personal preferences, values, and opinions into an objective truth aligns with the core principles of DBT. The therapy emphasizes mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. By promoting nonjudgmental communication, DBT aims to enhance individuals' ability to navigate relationships and manage emotions effectively.
In summary, my expertise in psychology and DBT underscores the significance of distinguishing between discriminating and evaluative judgments. Utilizing discriminative judgments fosters a more inclusive and open dialogue, aligning with the principles of nonjudgmental communication in DBT. This approach facilitates healthier interpersonal relationships and contributes to emotional well-being.
