CHAIN ARGUMENT

Description of the tool

Step-by-step description:
1.Designate an area as a ‘stage’. Explain to the group that the object of the activity is to experience conflict and compliments and then discuss what feels the most comfortable to give and receive. Try to give an idea of the exercise without giving too much away to avoid the group become reserved about what they do.
2.Set some group rules with the group:
§ That any conversation that takes place ends when the young person comes off stage.
§ That any argument started must be abstract and not a continuation of any outside grievance or vendetta!
§ That only two people can be on stage at any time and the dialogue only takes place for as long as they want – at any time they can withdraw and the next person has a go.
§ That if the experience becomes uncomfortable at any time the group stops and reviews what is going on.
They can then add to these if they wish.
3.Invite two members of the group to begin. Explain that one young person should stand on the stage while the next one approaches them and begins an argument. If there is reluctance or uncertainty about doing this, demonstrate what you mean by starting off the process with your co-worker. Be sure to make it clear that this should not be too personal. A good example is to begin with something that may be emotive but not too sensitive: ‘So why do you support [name of well-known football team] then, they’re rubbish?’. You should then carry on until one person has had enough and leaves the stage.
4.The next person joins the remaining group member on the stage and begins a new argument. If at any time it seems to be getting too personal – stop!
5.When everybody has had a chance to participate, ask the group to start the process again, only this time instead of picking an argument, they need to compliment them or say something positive about them. Once again, this will need to be managed carefully.

Reflection and evaluation:
At the end of the process, discuss with the young people how they felt. What was easier – arguing or complimenting? What felt the most comfortable – the giving or receiving of either? Remember to stress that there is no right or wrong here. You may be surprised at the answers!