For example, an expressive hairstyle, a show of a particular emotion, or simply doing (or not doing) the dishes can be means by which people may convey messages to each other.
[6] Aggressive communicators typically feel a strong sense of inadequacy, lack empathy, and believe the only way to meet their needs is through power and control.
[3] Behaviors often seen during aggressive communication include: putting others down, overpowering others, not showing appreciation, rushing others unnecessarily, ignoring others, not considering others' feelings, intimidating others, and speaking condescendingly.
[3] Additionally, individuals receiving aggressive communication typically feel resentful, defensive, humiliated, hurt, and afraid.
[6] Engaging in assertive communication helps individuals avoid conflict, maintain relationships, and usually end in a compromise.
[9] Individuals who engage in assertive communication are open to hearing the opinions of others without criticizing and feel comfortable enough to express their views.
[3] Essential problem-solving skills that assertive communicators acquire include negotiations, confronting problems as soon as they arise, and not letting negative emotions build up.
[3] Behaviors that may be present when an individual is engaging in assertive communication include: being open when expressing their thoughts and feelings, encouraging others to openly express their own opinions and feelings, listening to other's opinions and appropriately responding to them, accepting responsibilities, being action-orientated, being able to admit mistakes, setting realistic goals, maintaining self-control, and acting as an equal to those who are on the receiving end of the communication.
Individuals engaging in assertive communication convey open and receptive body language with upright posture and relaxed movements.
These behavioral characteristics include, but are not limited to: actively avoiding confrontation, difficulty taking responsibility or making decisions, agreeing with someone else's preferences, refusing compliments, sighing a lot, asking permission unnecessarily, and blaming others.
Typically, individuals engaging in a passive communication style have a soft voice, speak hesitantly, and make themselves very small.
[10] While engaging in this type of communication, passive individuals typically feel anxious during the conversation and hurt or angry later.
[10] Passive communicators tend to build dependent relationships; they often do not know where they stand in situations and will over-promote others, all resulting in the depletion of their self-esteem.
These behavioral characteristics include but are not limited to sarcasm, being unreliable, frequent complaining, sulking, patronizing, and gossiping.
Typically, individuals engaging in passive-aggressive communication display asymmetrical postures and jerky or quick gestures.
[2] Examples of Passive-Aggressive Language/Behavior include wistful statements, backhanded compliments, purposefully ignoring or saying nothing, leaving someone out, sabotaging someone, and muttering to oneself instead of confronting the issue.