The Decision Making Process

Teen Living 2011

Get to the front of the classroom.

Heads + Heads = one step to the left

Tails + Tails = one step to the right

Heads + Tails = one step forward

Tails + Heads = one step backwards

Steps to Making a Decision

Step 5: Evaluate results of the decision and accept

responsibility for results of the decision.

Step 4: Make a decision, plan and act on the

decision.

Step 3: Explore and evaluate possible solutions.

Step 2: Brainstorm possible solutions.

Step 1: Identify the problem.

EVALUATE

IDENTIFY

BRAINSTORM

ACT

EXPLORE

Josh is a senior at the local high school and is the starting pitcher on the baseball team. During a recent game Josh was sliding into second base and sprained his MCL. After spending some time in the trainers office Josh is advised to take it easy the next week at practice and if his knee gives him any trouble he will need to sit out the next game that happens to be against the school’s rival. The day before the game Josh falls on his knee and hurts it once more. Because he knows that the trainer will make him sit out in tomorrow’s game Josh decides not to tell the trainer. Against his teammates protest Josh heads for home. What do you think Josh should do?

My Decision Step 1: Identify the Problem Spell it out as clearly as possible 

Step 2: Brainstorm Possible Solutions Get all the options out on the table Look for options never before considered 

Step 3: Explore & Evaluate Possible Solutions What is the likely outcome of each proposed

solution 

Step 4: Make a Decision & Act on the Decision Plan out the steps and do it

Step 5: Evaluate Results & Accept Responsibility for the Decision Take the time to reflect and learn from what

went well, what didn’t go well and what unexpected results occurred

Decision-Making Strategies

Spontaneity: choosing the first option that comes to mind; giving little or no consideration to the consequences of the choice.

Compliance: going along with family, school, work, or peer expectations.

Procrastination: postponing thought and action until options are limited.

Accumulating so much information that analyzing the options becomes overwhelming.

Intention: Choosing an option that will be both intellectually and emotionally satisfying.

Desire: Choosing the option that might achieve the best result, regardless of the risk involved.

Avoidance: Choosing the option that will bring some success, offend the fewest people, and pose the least risk.

Synthesis: Choosing the option that has a good chance to succeed and which you like the best.

What influences your decisions?