Passive-aggression or passive-aggressive behaviors may seem very easy to identify. After all, most individuals have probably been the victim of some sort of passive-aggressive behavior in their lives. In actuality, however, those passive-aggressive behaviors were once recognized as a clinical personality disorder of the similar name. However, that does not mean that those personality traits no longer remain.
Passive-aggression can be a difficult problem to deal with because those affected by it are usually unaware of their behavior. Those who suffer from these types of behaviors usually feel that their partners do not understand their needs, frustration, or anger. If this is the case, the passive-aggressive behaviors will continue to be a problem until the partner that is being abused fully comprehends the pain and anger. However, if the passive-aggressive behaviors are stopped, then the person can begin to feel like they are being understood and may try to make amends for their actions.
There are several symptoms of passive aggression, and each individual should be evaluated by a mental health professional to determine the nature and cause of their behavior. The symptoms will include irritability, perfectionism, and emotional immaturity. These characteristics often lead to chronic passive aggression that can severely affect a person's interpersonal relationships and ability to form a healthy and satisfying relationship. Unfortunately, this type of mental health disorder is not discussed much in professional circles and those who suffer from it often feel very alone.
Although it is important to address passive-aggressive behaviors, it is equally important to address the anger and frustrations that cause the behavior. If the victim is aware of why he or she acts in such a way, the anger that they experience can be dealt with more effectively. It is also important to understand that passive-aggressive people have often been hurt in their relationships. Therefore, understanding what a passive-aggressive person has been through in their life can provide insight into how they might act today. Understanding their childhood experiences can provide clues to how they might act today. In many cases, understanding the root cause of their problems is all that is needed to stop them and prevent them from returning to their old ways.
Understanding the primary cause of their passive-aggressive behaviors is necessary in order to develop effective ways of dealing with them and learning how to get them to stop. Many times, the underlying health issue that is causing the person to lash out at others is not addressed. Once the anger is released, it is only a matter of time before it is turned back on at the victim when they are engaged in conversation. This is why it is very important to have a thorough understanding of the health issues that are causing the passive-aggressive behaviors. Once you have discovered the health issue, then you can seek effective treatment that addresses the issue and gives you relief.
The next step to stopping your passive-aggressive behaviors is to determine whether the hostility is a result of healthy emotions or a deeper emotional issue. Sometimes, people can become defensive or even exhibit guilt when they experience a loss of someone close to them. In other instances, people can lose their ability to communicate effectively and can become frustrated due to an inability to resolve a dispute or deal with a particular situation. Once you have determined that the hostility is not related to a deeper emotional issue, then you can focus your efforts on addressing the health issue that is causing the person to act in such a manner.
While it is always important to take control of your environment in order to avoid situations that trigger passive-aggressive behaviors, you must remember that every one has a unique personality. What one person may react strongly to in a certain situation may not be as overwhelming or frightening for another person. Therefore, it is important to determine the underlying health issue in order to determine the proper course of action to address your problem. It is also important to consider the personality style of those around you to determine the best way to handle the situation.
It is important to note that while there are some passive-aggressive behaviors that are common, there are also others that can be considered uniquely abusive. These behaviors include threatening, intimidating, and using harsh words. Even if your friend has displayed these types of behaviors occasionally, it is not advisable to ignore them because you think that they will eventually stop. Some people are able to rationalize the actions of their passive aggressive behaviors and minimize their impact, but others have severe difficulties coping with them. Regardless of how difficult it is to live with these behaviors, it is important to work with your friend to recognize the underlying causes and to find effective ways to deal with them.
