Aggressive & Assertive Communication Style

  Aggressive & Assertive  Communication Style

Aggressive style of communication

This style or behaviour happens when persons:
 Stand up for their rights in a way that violates the right of others to have their say
 Express own thoughts, feelings etc in inappropriate way even when they believe that their views are incorrect
Aggressive style of communication enhances speakers at the cost of others. It puts the other person down and is based on the opinion that their opinions are more important than others. It is characterized by:
 Blaming others or factors external and outside own control
 Showing contempt for others
 Being hostile to others
 Attacking others orally
 Patronizing others
Aggressive behaviour usually succeeds in getting what he wants; it also conveys a sense of power over others. It helps the communicator to release his steam and provides an outlet for his anger and bad feelings.

Assertive  communication style

There is a third style of communication – assertive communication. It is neither submissive nor aggressive – it is emphatic behaviour while communicating with others. It happens when persons:
 Stand up for their rights in a way that does not violate others‟ rights
 Express own point of view honestly, openly and directly while conveying that they understand the others‟ position