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21 Feb 2018How to stop Passive Aggressive Behaviour
Passive aggressive behaviour refers to the expression of anger in indirect ways such as sarcastic comments, being overly critical, giving the silent treatment, sulking, purposefully being late or not returning a phone call as well as withdrawing socially. It can be difficult to recognise passive aggression in yourself and in others because it occurs is so many different forms and the behaviour may be subconscious.
This kind of behaviour often stems from being told as children that expressing anger or disagreement is unacceptable and if we do we are punished. It is also common for passive aggressive people to be insecure with low self-esteem as they don’t feel confident enough to deal with uncomfortable emotions or situations head-on.
Passive aggression can be reduced or stopped by simply becoming aware of your emotions, changing your response and learning how to express yourself freely. Here are 3 tips to stop passive aggressive behaviour that will improve all your personal and professional relationships.
Take a breath
The best way to stop any kind of negative behaviour is to become aware of it and accept that you want or need to change it. Try to become aware of your feelings and before you start to react in a passive aggressive way take a few deep breaths and pause before continuing. This may help you to express yourself in a more calm and constructive way.
Pinpoint triggers
Common triggers of passive aggression are fear of failure, fear of conflict, fear of rejection, low self-esteem and fear of not being good enough. Try to identify what you are feeling when your passive aggressive behaviour is triggered and write these triggers and feelings down. Once you can recognise the triggers you can work on recognising them next time and stopping yourself before you react.
Express yourself with confidence
Frequent passive-aggressive behaviour aimed towards your family, friends and co-workers creates an environment of resentment, distrust, disrespect and poor communication. The best way to communicate with someone and gain their respect is to express your wants and needs in an honest and non-aggressive way.
By working on your self-confidence and self-worth you will stop worrying about rejection and what other people think of you. This confidence will help you to express yourself in a calm and direct way.
Source
https://www.care2.com/greenliving/how-to-put-a-stop-to-your-passive-aggressive-tendencies.html