Passive-Aggression: This Six-Word Phrase (Figuratively) Saved My Life (2024)

FAQs

What is the six word phrase to stop passive-aggressive behavior? ›

Eventually, I learned a brilliant, six-word phrase that I now use to help me stop passive aggression dead in its tracks: Attack the problem. Not the person. Why is this phrase so effective?

One alternative to passive-aggressive communication is assertive communication. By being forthcoming and direct, you leave less room for misinterpretation of your intent and meaning. Assertive is another way of saying decisive, certain, firm, and even positive. These words can help guide your communication.

Passive–aggressive personality disorder, also called negativistic personality disorder, is characterized by procrastination, covert obstructionism, inefficiency and stubbornness. The DSM-5 no longer uses this phrase or label, and it is not one of the ten listed specific personality disorders.

A passive-aggressive person might repeatedly claim that they are not mad or that they are fine—even when they are apparently furious and obviously not okay. In denying what they are feeling and refusing to be emotionally open, they shut down further communication and refuse to discuss the issue.

Passive Voice Sentence Structure

Note that the verb "be" is conjugated followed by the participle form of the main verb. The house was built in 1989. My friend is being interviewed today. The project has been completed recently.

People with covert narcissism often use several tactics to gain control over others in a relationship. This includes gaslighting, manipulation, passive-aggressive behavior, and intimidation.

Passive aggression stems from deep anger, hostility, and frustration that a person, for whatever reason, is not comfortable expressing directly.

Resentment and opposition to the demands of others, especially the demands of people in positions of authority. Resistance to cooperation, procrastination and intentional mistakes in response to others' demands. Cynical, sullen or hostile attitude. Frequent complaints about feeling underappreciated or cheated.

What is the most common passive-aggressive? ›

Sarcasm is the most obvious form of passive aggression, and possibly the most hurtful. Your audience may have no idea that you're upset, much less why you're upset.

If your behavior is passive-aggressive, and causing problems in your relationships, ask your doctor about starting therapy. It can help you learn better communication and make better choices. Therapies that can help with passive-aggressive behavior include: Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)

Passive-aggressive behaviour may not seem as harmful as other forms of control or abuse, but poor behaviour is always on a spectrum and tends to get worse over time. It's hard living with someone who never says what they mean, especially when it's used to put us down or throw us off balance.

WordFinder also identified some of the least passive-aggressive work phrases, including “Sorry to bother you again,” “Any update on this” and “I'll take care of it.” According to Mercurio, the difference in the delivery of these phrases have to do with timing and attitude.

The book offers effective methods for transforming passive-aggression into healthy assertiveness to communicate in constructive ways through eight keys: Recognize Your Hidden Anger; Reconnect Your Emotions to Your Thoughts; Listen to Your Body; Set Healthy Boundaries; Communicate Assertively; Interact Using Mindfulness ...