ELEMENTS OF STYLES OF COMMUNICATION BEHAVIOUR

ELEMENTS OF STYLES OF COMMUNICATION BEHAVIOUR

A sensitive observer should be able to spot the communication style of individuals‟ from the verbal cues or signals exhibited:

(1) Non-assertive (submissive) communication style

The verbal cues and clues are:
(1) Use of apologetic words
(2) Devaluation of self
(3) Failure to say what one means really
(4) Use of phrases implying diffidence
(5) Beating about the bush - hedging
(6) Loss of words
(7) Self-defeating
(8) Shifting responsibility to others
(9) Rambling and disjointed expressions
(10) Veiled meanings

(2) Aggressive communication style

The verbal symbols are:
(1) Accusations of others
(2) Behaving like a dictator
(3) Use of very subjective descriptions
(4) Not recognizing roles of others
(5) Use of loaded words
(6) Putting others down
(7) Frequent use of „you‟ messages blaming or labeling others
(8) Use of superior wordings in expressions

(3) Assertive communication style

The verbal signs and signals are:
(1) Accept responsibility
(2) Make direct statements that say what they mean
(3) Express own feelings honestly
(4) Negotiate on the basis of win-win situation for both parties
(5) Use „I‟ messages frequently
(6) Use object sentences
(7) Recognize others‟ contribution
(8) State their „wants‟ clearly