Category: FAQ’s and KNOWLEDGE BASES

The FAQ section (Frequently Asked Questions) provides shorter answers to common questions on topics relevant to this site: communication, planning, conflict, leadership and more coming. Available FAQ’s are accessible here.
Innuendo – A Conflict Starter and A Cowardly Approach To Communication
Innuendo is defined as follows: A veiled or hinted reflection on the character or reputation of a person It falls into the category of passive-aggressive communication because a) it is indirect and b) it is usually used to insult or…
What is the command syntax problem (or use of the imperative)?
What do the following have in common? Take out the garbage Telephone Mr. Smith and get his order Fix the problem before you go home for the day Simple, really. These forms of language involve the use of the imperative,…
What is passive-aggressive behavior? A common but destructive communication approach
Passive aggressive communication is the term used to describe communication and behavior that is a) indirect and b) contains messages that are driven by negative emotions, maliciousness or are otherwise intended to attack someone. Passive aggressive communication is not limited…
What are statements of mistrust? Why do the damage relationships?
Mistrust statements are comments or questions that suggest to the other person that you mistrust them, orlack confidence in their abilities, integrity, behaviors or commitment. Whether your comments and questions are accurate and factual or not, when you use mistrust…
What are person centered comments?
Person centered communication is just one of many communication techniques that makes conversations volatile and unpleasant. When you discuss a topic with someone, you can talk about the topic or issue (which is good), or you can talk about the…
What Are Infallibility Comments? How do they damage communication?
Infallibility comments are questions or statements that sound as if the speaker believes s/he couldn’t possibly be wrong. When people believe that a speaker is arrogant, “high and mighty” or believes in their own infallibility, there is a tendency to…
What are past centered comments? Focusing on the past destroys effective communication
Past centered comments are comments that focus on what has happened in the past rather than focusing on what is happening at the moment, or the issue at hand. We’ve all run into people who seem to live life through…
What is inappropriate reassurance and inappropriate positive thinking?
When communication really works between two people, each person feels the other understands his or her situation, perceptions and feelings. That’s one reason why advanced listening skills are so important. In some situations, though, well meaning attempts by one person…
What are defensiveness causing questions?
There’s no argument that the use of questions is a critical part of give and take conversation, and questions are a great way to show you are interested in the other person. They are essential to the dialogue process. However,…
What are lengthy attempts to persuade?
When you take a position and advocate for it (try to persuade another person to adopt it or agree with it), there’s a point where your attempts to change the other person’s mind will backfire, and create more resistance to…
What Are The Satir Modes?
The Satir Modes refer to the communication styles categorized by Virginia Satir, a renowned family therapist. These modes are used to explain how individuals express themselves and interact with others. Understanding the Satir Modes can greatly enhance our communication skills…