What is defensive behavior?

What is defensive behavior?

Defensive behavior is defined as that behavior which occurs when an individual perceives threat or anticipates threat in the group. The person who behaves defensively, even though he or she also gives some attention to the common task, devotes an appreciable portion of energy to defending himself or herself.

What is defensiveness in communication?

Individuals respond either defensively or in a supportive manner based on their own perceptions of the communicative climates. For example, communication perceived as evaluative will increase defensiveness in the listener, due to the perception that the communicator is judging the listener.

What causes defensiveness during a conversation?

When someone is embarrassed by what another person says or does, they may respond defensively. Embarrassment often occurs because of incorrect beliefs someone may have about themselves such as worthlessness, fear of abandonment, failure, or scarcity of positives in their lives.

What is supportive and defensive communication?

Defensive behaviors are carried out when a person feels threatened during communication and hence the need to defend him or herself. Supportive communication is important as humans interact, as people need to feel a connection with other people.

What is a non defensive response?

We are using non-defensive communication when we ask questions, make statements and predict consequences in an open, sincere way without trying to control how other people respond. We can gather accurate information, speak with clarity, protect ourselves, and hold others more accountable.

How do you listen non defensively?

Self-soothe to listen

  1. Write down what your partner says and any defensiveness you’re feeling. Dr.
  2. Be mindful of love and respect.
  3. Slow down and breathe.
  4. Hold on to yourself.
  5. Don’t take your partner’s complaint personally.
  6. Ask for a reframe.
  7. Push the pause button.

What is evaluative communication?

Evaluative communication expresses judgment of the listener, or his or her actions. To be an effective constructive communicator, we should objectively describe problems rather than speak in an evaluative manner.