Mental representation
A mental representation is an internal image, concept, or model by which the mind relates to things, people, events, and ideas.
Definition
Mental representations allow you to predict, interpret, and plan even when the thing is not immediately present. They may take the form of images, words, concepts, diagrams or situation models. The problem arises when the representation is outdated, too rigid, or confused with reality itself.
Key ideas
Missing key ideas.
Practice and life
When in conflict, write down what internal representation of the other person you have in your head. Check if it is still current and based on facts.
Common misunderstanding
It is a mistake to treat your own image of the situation as the full reality. It is also a mistake not to update the model after new data.
Questions for self-reflection
No questions for self-reflection.
Sources
No sources.