Sterling's 3-year-old daughter, Donna, has just started preschool, and Sterling wants to hear what she is doing all day in his absence. To Sterling's frustration, when he asks his daughter to tell him about her day, she just says, "I don't know." Research suggests that Sterling should __________.
A) ask Donna specific questions, such as, "Did you eat the whole sandwich I packed for your lunch?"
B) wait for Donna to outgrow the preoperational stage
C) shake up Donna's memory by asking questions about events that probably did not happen, such as "Did you like the clown that came into your class today?"
D) have his wife ask Donna instead

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Asking specific questions about events that occurred during the day can prompt Donna to remember and share more details about her day. This approach can help Sterling stay connected with his daughter and also improve his communication skills with her. Waiting for Donna to outgrow the preoperational stage or intentionally confusing her with imaginary events are not beneficial or ethical solutions. Additionally, having his wife ask Donna instead may not solve the issue of Donna's lack of communication skills with Sterling.

Sterling's 3-Year-Old Daughter, Donna, Has Just Started Preschool, and Sterling