Exposure to Social Situations
169UÊTalk to dog owners who are walking their dogs . Dog owners often love to 
talk about their dogs. If you have a dog, try going for walks in areas where 
other people walk their pets. Make comments or ask questions about other 
people’s dogs (for example, “Nice dog” or “What kind of dog is that?”). If 
you return to the same routes frequently, you will likely see the same people 
over and over again. You may even make some new friends.
UÊTalk to cashiers or other staff personnel in stores . For example, comment 
on the weather, ask for advice or information (“Does this shirt go with these 
pants?”), or special order a book or CD.
UÊGive or receive compliments . Offer someone else a compliment. For 
example, tell a coworker that you like her sweater or new haircut, tell an 
artist that you like his work, or compliment a waiter on the quality of your 
food. If you are uncomfortable receiving compliments, just say “Thank you” 
when someone praises you. Don’t discount the praise by telling the person 
all the reasons why you don’t deserve it.
UÊExpress a controversial opinion . If you have a controversial opinion about 
some issue, express it, particularly in situations where the consequences are 
likely to be minimal. For example, if you didn’t like a movie that someone 
else is raving about, let them know what you didn’t like about the ﬁlm. If 
you disagree with someone else’s political views, explain your perspective 
on the issue. Try not to put down the other person or to discount that 
person’s views when you are expressing your own opinions. Differing views