Engaging in Argumentation

: In class, we discussed the differences between constructive and destructive forms of aggression—in particular, argumentativeness and verbal aggressiveness—and how the key to engaging in argumentation is by refuting a person’s position on an issue. For this activity, you will practice engaging in argumentation by refuting an argument published in the New York Times about skipping yearly routine doctor visits. Refer to class notes from Unit 2 (Trait-Like Factors that Affect Public Messages) to help you complete this activity. Read the attached article (“Skip Your Annual Physical”) and respond to the following: (1)    Identify three of the points the author makes to support his argument of skipping yearly doctor visits. (2)    Provide three points that refute the author’s argument of skipping yearly doctor visits. (3)    In class we also learned that quickly running out of arguments increases the likelihood of engaging in verbal aggression. Discuss two ways you can prepare yourself ahead of time to engage in argumentation (rather than verbal aggression) about controversial issues.

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