Types of Communication
This communication style avoids expressing needs and often says “it’s fine” when it’s not.
What is passive communication?
A trigger is something that causes this internal reaction.
What is an emotional response?
Listening to understand instead of to respond is called this.
What is active listening?
Raising your voice during conflict is an example of this.
What is escalation?
Admitting when you are wrong is called this.
What is accountability?
This communication style violates others’ boundaries and often includes yelling or threats.
What is aggressive communication?
When your heart races and your body tenses during conflict, this system is activated.
What is the fight-or-flight response?
Repeating back what someone said to confirm understanding is called this.
What is reflective listening?
Lowering your tone and slowing your speech is an example of this.
What is de-escalation?
Saying “I’m sorry” without excuses is an example of this.
What is a genuine apology?
This is the healthiest communication style and includes clear, respectful expression of needs.
What is assertive communication?
This skill involves noticing your feelings before reacting.
What is emotional awareness?
Taking a short break during heated conflict to calm down is called this.
What is a time-out?
Name one phrase that helps de-escalate conflict.
(“Let’s take a minute.” / “I don’t want to argue.” / “Help me understand.”)
Blaming others instead of taking responsibility is called this.
What is deflecting?
This style appears passive on the surface but includes sarcasm or indirect hostility.
What is passive-aggressive communication?
Name one healthy coping skill that can be used when triggered.
(Deep breathing, walking away, grounding, counting to 10, etc.)
Finding a solution where both parties feel heard is called this.
What is compromise?
Name one behavior that makes conflict worse.
(Name-calling, interrupting, bringing up the past, etc.)
After conflict, rebuilding trust requires this over time.
What is consistency?
This tool helps express feelings without blaming others and starts with “I feel…”
What are I-statements?
Unresolved past experiences that intensify current reactions are often called this.
What is unresolved trauma or emotional baggage?
This involves setting clear limits on what behavior you will and will not accept.
What are boundaries?
The goal of de-escalation is to reduce this.
What is emotional intensity?
This mindset focuses on solving the problem instead of winning the argument.
What is collaboration?