toxic positivity
Telling someone to "just be happy" while they're grieving is an example of this invalidating mindset.
What is toxic positivity?
This tactic involves making someone doubt their own memory or perception of events.
What is gaslighting?
Blaming others for your repeated mistakes is a sign you're avoiding this key personal responsibility.
What is accountability?
This attachment style may lead someone to prioritize independence over connection.
What is avoidant attachment?
Interrupting, dismissing, or talking over someone are all signs you may struggle with this core communication skill.
What is active listening?
This three-word phrase, often used to avoid negative emotions, can actually make others feel ashamed of their feelings.
What is 'good vibes only'?
This term describes when someone plays the victim to gain sympathy and avoid responsibility.
What is victim-playing?
This five-letter word means admitting when you're wrong — even when it's uncomfortable.
What is sorry?
This attachment style often develops when caregivers are consistently responsive and supportive.
What is secure attachment?
Using sarcasm, guilt-tripping, or backhanded compliments instead of being direct is an example of this type of communication.
What is passive-aggressiveness?
This mental health phrase means accepting all emotions, not forcing yourself to feel happy all the time.
What is emotional honesty?
When someone constantly shifts blame to avoid accountability, they’re using this manipulation tool.
What is deflection?
People who consistently deflect blame or deny their behavior are often afraid of this consequence.
What is facing the truth?
This response may cause someone to run away or avoid situations that feel threatening.
What is the flight response?
This "silent" response, often used during conflict, is a form of emotional manipulation and not healthy communication.
What is the silent treatment?
Toxic positivity often stems from an inability to sit with this uncomfortable but essential human experience.
What is emotional discomfort?
A person who uses charm and flattery to distract from harmful behavior is engaging in this.
What is love bombing?
True accountability includes not just words, but these two follow-up actions.
What are change and consistency?
This reaction may cause someone to become angry or confrontational when they feel unsafe.
What is the fight response?
Consistently raising your voice, name-calling, or making threats during arguments points to this communication style.
What is aggressive communication?
When you pressure yourself to stay upbeat during burnout or depression, you’re denying yourself this basic need.
What is self-compassion?
This term refers to using fear or threats to influence someone’s decisions.
What is coercion?
Owning your actions without blaming your past, trauma, or others is a sign of this kind of maturity.
What is emotional maturity?
This attachment style can lead to clinginess and difficulty trusting that others will stay
What is anxious attachment?
Instead of using “you” statements that blame, healthy communicators use this type of statement to express feelings.
What are “I” statements?