Which communication strategy (direct control, indirect control or no control) is best?
In a study by Melanie Morgan, Assistant Professor in Communications at Purdue University, the indirect control strategy was preferred. This allows the other person to help solve the issue because it allows for equal input. The three types of control strategies used in this site are related to a theory of Paternalism and Autonomy. Older adults often have a need to be autonomous; that means they need to retain some authority. A person who is trying to take care of someone may be acting out of feelings of paternalism. When indirect control is used, the person who initiates the conversation is meeting his or her needs to “take care” of the issue while giving the other person an opportunity to share in the decision. In other words, the person who shares can act with some authority or “autonomy.” Retaining some authority or autonomy is likely to be important to an older person. For example: listen to Ed reply to John, his Son, in Scenario 5, Health Issues. Ed says, “All right. But, I will do
