🗣️ Expressing Ideas & Opinions

Many young people say they find it difficult to disagree with teachers, parents or managers. Some admit they often stay silent, even when they know the other person is wrong.

Psychologist Dr Ayla Demir argued that this was deeply damaging — both to individuals and to society. She claimed that a culture of silent agreement prevented genuine problem-solving. "I would argue that respectful disagreement is not rude — it is essential," she told students at a recent conference. "It can be learned and practised."

She suggested using phrases like "I see what you mean, but..." or "That's an interesting perspective — have you considered...?" She warned that aggressive language almost always escalated rather than resolved conflict.

A student asked whether there was ever a situation where disagreeing simply was not worth it. Dr Demir replied that there was almost always a way to express a different view with dignity — if you chose your words carefully.

"The problem," she said, "is that people confuse disagreement with attack. They are completely different things." She admitted that even she had been guilty of this in her younger years. "I denied being wrong for years," she laughed. "Learning to say 'I was mistaken' was one of the hardest and most important lessons of my life."

Another student asked what single piece of advice she would give. "Listen first," she replied. "Always, always listen first."