In this module you were introduced to a variety of conflict styles and communication styles. As you read the descriptions, you probably recognized some characteristics that you tend to exhibit when communicating or during a conflict. In this assignment, you will explore those styles in more detail. In a 2-page paper, written using proper spelling/grammar, address the following:
Explain each communication style and conflict style, then identify the 1 communication style and 1 conflict style you think best describe your current tendencies.
Describe the impact that the 2 styles have had on your life and relationships, using actual examples.
Predict how your 2 styles might impact your work as a Human Services Professional.
Do you think you may need to consider making changes to your communication and/or conflict style tendencies? Explain your reasoning.
Individual Communication Preferences
We all have a preference for how we prefer to relay and receive information. The way you choose to share information with others is what is known as your communication style. You can probably recall a time where you were talking to someone and it felt like you were speaking two different languages even though technically you were not. You both clearly could understand the words that were spoken, but somewhere the meaning attached to the words somehow got lost.
We are all individuals. Just as we approach conflict differently, we share information differently. Gender, age, upbringing, culture, and experience can all shape how we exchange information with others. Healthy and effective communication doesn’t require we all communicate the same way. It does however require a level of self-awareness. Understanding your own personal style can help you learn to communicate better with others
4 Communication Styles
There are many different communication styles. Four of the more common styles are discussed below.
Passive
A style in which the person avoids expressing their true opinions, feelings, needs, and desires. Those who use this style do not respond to situations that cause them to feel hurt or angry. They attempt to overlook or avoid them. This lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings and resentment by both parties. The passive communicator tends to let the negative emotions build up inside, which results in an outburst over something the other party views as minor.
Passive communicators often avoid eye contact in conversations, especially when they are uncomfortable. They are easy to get along with and are often considered people that “go with the flow” because they yield to the other party, and are uncomfortable saying no.
Aggressive
An approach in which people express their needs, opinions, and feelings in a way that intrudes upon others. Aggressive communicators can speak loudly and be demanding in their words and tone, maintaining eye contact consistently. This communication style can be rude, overbearing, and intimidating to others. Those that lead with this communication style do very little listening, and have low tolerance for other opinions. Those that lead with this communication style should be caution that it can lead others to fear them more than respect them.
Passive-Aggressive
These communicators appear passive on the surface but take their true feelings out in subtle, secret, and indirect ways. Their behavior is motivated by the belief that expressing their feelings will make a situation worse. Those who communicate this way do not feel confident or comfortable expressing their true feelings and opinions openly. Instead, they may choose to mutter to themselves, use facial expressions that do not correlate with their words or find a way to sabotage the other party’s desired outcome. Unlike the passive communicator, passive-aggressive communicators are aware of their needs, just unsure of how to express them. This can lead to behaviors such as the silent treatment or spreading rumors about another.
Assertive
This style is thought to me the most effective of the 4 communication styles. These communicators are individuals that clearly state and advocate for their opinions, wishes, and feelings without violating others. They communicate with others respectfully attempting to listen to and consider their needs as well. They aim for balance and fairness. Assertive communicators listen well to the needs of the other but are not afraid to say “no”. They speak in a respectful tone while maintaining eye contact, voicing their needs with confidence. These communicators can take responsibility for their feelings without placing blame on others.
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