Pile on principle (p.o.p.)
"P.O.P. is critical in understanding why people sometimes overreact" Maura J. Cullen
Dr. Cullen (2008) demonstrates the P.O.P concept using the proverbial "wrong side of the bed". She asks us to image that we stub our toe first thing in the morning. As we continued our day, it just seems as if there is a sign on your toe that says, "STEP ON ME TODAY!" While you accept the apologizes, it doesn't take away the pain. As you end your day in the comforts of your home, a loved one steps on your toe. At that point, you've had enough and you just POP! Your loved one doesn't understand your extreme reaction and reacts in a defensive manner. At times, we don't know the background of a person's day or life.
Dr. Cullen explains, "If you are a person who tells a joke that offends someone, or uses a word that annoys another, remember that you are only seeing a 'snapshot' of this person. It is very likely that there is a long video history of pain that has been piled too high for too long and they are finally reacting now" (Cullen, 2008 p. 24).
DUMB STATEMENTS...
When people of color say, "It's not the same thing."
Referring to the significant other, partner or spouse, of a same gender couple as their "Friend".
"Here's another book on 'political correctness'."
"You have such a pretty face" as a compliment to someone who is overweight.
Dr. Cullen explains, "If you are a person who tells a joke that offends someone, or uses a word that annoys another, remember that you are only seeing a 'snapshot' of this person. It is very likely that there is a long video history of pain that has been piled too high for too long and they are finally reacting now" (Cullen, 2008 p. 24).
DUMB STATEMENTS...
When people of color say, "It's not the same thing."
Referring to the significant other, partner or spouse, of a same gender couple as their "Friend".
"Here's another book on 'political correctness'."
"You have such a pretty face" as a compliment to someone who is overweight.