Styles of Communication

Every time we speak, we choose and use one of three basic communication styles: assertive, aggressive and passive.

Communication:

The most ______and ______form of communication is the assertive style. It's how we______express ourselves when our ______, giving us the ______to communicate without ______and ______.

When we are being assertive, we work hard to create ______solutions. We communicate our needs ______and______.

We ______about the relationship and ______situation. We know our ______and refuse to be pushed beyond them just because someone else wants or needs something from us.

Surprisingly, ______.

Behaviours that express thoughts and feelings in an ______.

You ask straightforwardly for ______, without ______

______. You give an ______"no" to things you don't want.

You can accept "______" for an answer.

 Speaks ______and ______using statements.

 ______

 Makes ______- contact.

 Uses an ______posture and a pleasant, firm voice.

 Speech is ______, ______, ______and you use "I" statements.

 Voice is ______

Result: ______Communication:

Aggressive communication always involves ______We may attempt to make people do what ______

(hurt) or by using ______(anger). Covert or overt, we simply want our ______.

Although there are a few arenas where aggressive behavior is called for (i.e.,

______), it will never work in a relationship. Ironically, the more aggressive sports rely heavily on ______and

______strategies. Even war might be avoided if we could learn to be more ______and ______.

Behaviours that express thoughts and feelings in a ______.

You may attempt to get your own way by using ______,

______or ______.

 ______, exaggerates, ______, makes demands; ______-.

 Makes ______- cold, staring, narrowed and angry.

 Yells, ______, calls names, ______.

 ______.

 Voice may be ______, ______, harsh or cold and quiet.

 You may have a ______.

 You may be ______(pushing, hitting, etc…).

Result:

______

______Communication:

Passive communication is based on ______and

______at all costs. In this mode we don't

______, ______, and actually do very little. We just don't want to rock the boat. Passives have learned that it is safer not to react and better to ______.

Behaviours that do not express ______. You may give in and say "______" when you don't really want to. You may not speak up when you want something.

 ______, ______, gives in or says nothing.

 Makes ______- your eyes may be downcast or looking away, ______.

 ______

 You may have a ______with shoulder and head down and with shifting body movements.

Result:

______