Communication Styles
Recognising and understanding the different communication styles can improve the way you communicate. Which style you use will depend on who you are talking with. It can take practise choosing the most appropriate style to use.
Aggressive
Aggressive communication is when you express your feelings and needs in a way that violates or disregards the rights and opinions of others.​​​
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inappropriately honest
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dominates others
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does not listen well
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criticises or blames others
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low frustration tolerance
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only uses 'you' statements​, for example,
“You’re such an idiot! Do what I say or else!”
Passive
Passive communication is when you suppress your feelings and needs in order to please or avoid conflict with others.  ​​
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denies your own needs
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apologises for emotions
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defers to others' opinions
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minimises your own experiences
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prioritises others, for example,
“I’m sorry, I don’t have an opinion. Whatever you want is fine with me.”
Passive Aggressive
Passive-Aggressive communication is a way of expressing anger or resentment without directly confronting the person or situation that is causing it.  ​​
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indirect communication
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denies difficult emotions
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indirectly expresses anger
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Backhanded compliments that seem like praise but actually insult
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denies there is a problem
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pretend to cooperate
“Oh, I guess I’ll just do it myself since no one else seems to care.”​​
Assertive
Assertive communication is different from these styles because it respects both yourself and others.  ​​​
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gives direct communication
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appropriately honest
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stand up for yourself
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listens and doesn't interrupt expresses your emotions
“When you don’t call me back, I feel ignored. Can we talk about how we can stay in touch better?”​