DECISION MAKING

ASMITA BIJLANI
Decision making is a process we engage in almost every day, but it can at times be
challenging and tough. We may from time-to-time encounter decisions that are more difficult
to make and leave us feeling stuck. This is often likely when it comes to uncertain and
ambiguous situations. Our decision-making process, like all other cognitions (thoughts) and
behaviours may often be influenced by our emotions, external environment, other people,
past experiences and biases.
Some of the common situations that make it tough for us to make decisions are times when:
- we don’t have enough resources or information
- it involves a risk
- we have to choose between two equally attractive/repulsive options
- when we have to take urgent decisions
- when our choices are going to impact others as well

1. PROS AND CONS ANALYSIS

This includes first stating the problem, identifying what is it that you need to take the
decision regarding. Then list the choices that you have, that is the alternatives that you
must decide from. Then go on to analyse each choice, stating the pros and cons of
making that decision. On the basis of this analysis, to pick the most effective solution
for yourself.

2. BRAINSTORMING
When the client is stuck in a loop constantly thinking about the problem, the
alternatives and there are lots of negative thoughts and feelings attached to the
decision-making process this can be used to make them vent all the confusion that is
going on inside their mind. The client can be told to discard the piece of paper after
this or go over the viable solutions that the brainstormed during the process.

3. SWOT ANALYSIS
This involves evaluating implications of a decision. It can be used if the client is
worried about the future implications of making a decision or is hesitant to make a
decision because they are doubting their capabilities of carrying out that decision. For
example, wanting to take a new job but unsure if the role offered by the company will
suit them. The client can go on and identify their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities
and threats and evaluate their decision in terms of that.

4. PUT IT ON A CHAIR TECHNIQUE

Here the client imagines as though each choice in the decision-making process is a
person. The client imagines as if the choice is sitting in front of them on a chair and
carries out a conversation with that choice, evaluating what it would mean if they go
 ahead with it. For example, “you seem to be a safe option but I am afraid if I go with
you, I might miss out on opportunities”; “maybe I would be taking a huge risk by
going with you, I have suffered making such decisions in the past”; “I might be able
give this a go, and keep my backup options ready, isn’t it?”
This derives from the empty chair technique.

5. PROBLEM SOLVING STEP BY STEP WORKSHEET

Source: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety: Application of the F.E.A.R. Model for
Adults, A. Stephen Lenz, Ph.D., LPC, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
 Decison Making
PROBLEM AT HAND

MY CHOICES

PROS AND CONS

PROS AND CONS

MOST EFFECTIVE SOLUTION.....

 BRAINSTORMING
Take a deep breath. Thinking about the problem at hand,
write/scribble all the ideas, solutions, thoughts and feelings
coming to mind related to it. Don't filter your thoughts,
simply write all that comes to your mind
 STRENGHTS WEAKNESSES
SWOT ANALYSIS

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS