Teaching New Skills: Overcoming Self-Threat in Training
When teaching someone something new, it is crucial to make it clear from the outset that the destination is a place everyone desires to reach. This clarity helps align motivation and enthusiasm toward learning. However, one of the greatest barriers to successful training is the feeling of self-threat experienced by learners.
“Feelings of self-threat are the single biggest obstacle in gaining the willing participation of workers in new training programs. Moreover, feelings of self-threat tend to spread among co-workers as they share their concerns.” – Wisenfeld, Raghuram, and Raghu (1999)
Why a Clear Shared Destination Matters
Learners who understand the purpose and benefits of training are more motivated and engaged. When the goal is positive and shared, learners perceive value and are willing to invest effort to achieve it. Without this, motivation may falter and resistance can grow.
Understanding Feelings of Self-Threat
Self-threat occurs when individuals perceive a challenge to their competence or identity from new learning. This can trigger defensiveness, anxiety, or withdrawal, hindering learning and participation. Since these feelings can spread quickly within peer groups, training programs must address them actively.
How to Overcome Self-Threat in Training
- Transparent communication: Explain how the training supports growth without threatening current skills or status.
- Build psychological safety: Foster an environment where questions and mistakes are accepted as part of learning.
- Encourage collaboration: Peer support can reduce fears and promote shared success.
- Address concerns up-front: Recognize and empathize with learners' anxieties to reduce resistance.
The Role of Leadership and Culture
Leaders shape attitudes by demonstrating commitment to development and reassuring workers of their valued roles. Organizational cultures that promote learning as a shared journey achieve more success with change initiatives.
Conclusion
Setting a clear and desirable destination for training, while addressing feelings of self-threat, is essential for effective learning. By creating safe, supportive environments and open communication, organizations can foster willing participation and meaningful skill development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clarifying the destination aligns learner motivation and shows the value and benefits of the training, increasing willingness to participate.
Self-threat arises when learners fear their competence or status might be challenged, leading to defensive behaviors and resistance to learning.
By fostering psychological safety, transparent communication, peer support, and empathetic leadership, organizations can create environments that reduce defensiveness and encourage participation.
Because employees share concerns and anxieties related to new learning, creating a collective atmosphere of resistance that can undermine training efforts.