Communication Styles
What is an “I” statement?
"I" statements express one’s feelings without blaming others (e.g., "I feel hurt when..."). They encourage open dialogue by reducing defensiveness.
Name one way to avoid domination in decision-making.
One way to avoid domination is by having open discussions about choices, setting ground rules, or ensuring comfort with the decision.
Why are boundaries important in relationships?
Boundaries protect each person’s autonomy, prevent conflicts, and build trust by clarifying limits.
How can taking a break help during an argument?
Taking a break gives time to cool off, reduces impulsive responses, and allows for rational discussion.
How can excessive social media use affect a relationship?
Excessive social media use can reduce in-person connection, create jealousy, and lead to comparisons.
What is active listening, and how does it impact a conversation?
Active listening shows respect for the other person’s thoughts, encourages equal participation, and helps both feel valued.
What is one way to make shared decisions fairly?
Fair shared decisions include taking turns, discussing pros and cons together, or finding compromise.
Give one example of a personal boundary.
Personal boundaries include privacy around social media, designating alone time, and limiting communication frequency.
What is a fair way to reach a resolution in a disagreement?
Fair conflict resolution includes seeking compromise, listening to each other, and focusing on solutions.
What’s a healthy approach to managing social media in relationships?
Healthy approaches include setting boundaries, being mindful of what’s shared, and openly communicating comfort levels.
What is an example of non-verbal communication?
Non-verbal examples include eye contact, body language, tone, and facial expressions. They can convey attentiveness and affect trust.
Why is it important to involve both people in decision-making?
Involving both people promotes equality, ensures both feel valued, and prevents resentment from feeling ignored.
How can setting boundaries affect the power balance in a relationship?
Setting boundaries creates respect, reduces control by one person, and allows for personal autonomy.
Why is acknowledging mistakes important in conflict resolution?
Acknowledging mistakes shows accountability, helps rebuild trust, and allows for mutual understanding.
How can social media activity create trust issues?
Trust issues can arise from frequent checking of each other’s activity, misinterpreting interactions, or feeling excluded.
Define passive communication.
Passive communication is when a person avoids expressing their own thoughts and feelings, often to avoid conflict, leading to an imbalance.
What is compromise in decision-making?
Compromise in decision-making is finding a middle ground that considers both parties’ needs and preferences.
Define a personal boundary.
A personal boundary is a limit or guideline set to protect one’s well-being and comfort within a relationship.
What is the role of empathy in conflict resolution?
Empathy in conflict resolution is understanding and acknowledging the other person’s feelings and perspective.
Define digital boundaries in a relationship.
Digital boundaries are guidelines around how social media and online interactions are handled within a relationship.
What is assertive communication?
Assertive communication is expressing oneself clearly and respectfully, aiming to establish mutual respect and prevent misunderstandings.
What is consensus decision-making?
Consensus decision-making is when all parties agree to a decision that everyone can support, even if it’s not everyone’s first choice.
Define the term “emotional boundaries.”
Emotional boundaries are limits set around sharing personal feelings and vulnerabilities to maintain emotional safety and autonomy.
What is the purpose of “I” statements?
"I" statements help reduce blame and defensiveness, creating a constructive approach to conflict.
Define digital trust in relationships.
Digital trust is the assurance and comfort that partners respect each other’s privacy and boundaries on social media.