Both parties communicate with each other, even if in very subtle ways such as through eye-contact (or lack of) and general body language. In written communication, however, the sender and recipient are more distinct. Of course, there may be more than one recipient, and the complexity of communication means that each one may receive a slightly different message. Two people may read very different things into the choice of words and/or body language. It is also possible that neither of them will have quite the same understanding as the sender. Learning to be more assertive can also help you effectively express your feelings when communicating with others about issues.
Some individuals may have a more direct and assertive style while others may prefer a more passive and indirect approach. No one style is inherently better or worse than the other, but understanding and adapting to different styles can greatly improve communication in relationships. A communication style is basically the way you talk and act when sharing thoughts or feelings. It includes your words, tone of voice, facial expressions, body language, and even silence. If you grew up around yelling, you might adopt a louder style.
Their relationship flourished as they navigated their differences. Ready to meet someone who truly aligns with your communication style and values? Hytch offers personalised matchmaking services for professionals in Perth, Sydney and Melbourne, helping you connect with like-minded individuals who are ready for real relationships. For example, someone with an avoidant easternhoneys delete account guide attachment may shut down during conflict, while an anxious partner may seek constant reassurance.
Let who you are, where you come from, and what you value come through in your communication. People will never willingly follow someone they feel is inauthentic. The target of contempt is made to feel despised and worthless. One way to improve your communication skills is to focus on your listening skills.
Healthy Communication Tips For Stronger Relationships
Research even shows that couples that are contemptuous of each other are more likely to suffer from infectious illness (colds, the flu, etc.) than others due to weakened immune systems! Contempt is fueled by long-simmering negative thoughts about the partner—which come to a head when the perpetrator attacks the accused from a position of relative superiority. Criticizing your partner is different than offering a critique or voicing a complaint. The latter two are about specific issues, whereas the former is an ad hominem attack. It is an attack on your partner at the core of their character. In effect, you are dismantling their whole being when you criticize.
- “Different communication styles emerge in an interaction,” LaFave said, “but accurate understanding of the style comes with time and patience.”
- By becoming more assertive, you can begin to express your true feelings and needs more easily.
- Collaborating is both cooperative and assertive as it aims for a true “win-win.” This strategy involves digging deep into the issue to find solutions that satisfy everyone involved.
For instance, assertive communicators can articulate their needs clearly, while passive communicators may struggle to voice their concerns. When communication styles are mismatched — such as one person being direct and the other avoidant — misunderstandings can build quickly. In relationships, communication is often the defining factor between connection and conflict.
Communication In Practice
The aggressive partner often feels helpless and angry, while the passive partner feels misunderstood and unhappy. The good news is that once you notice the mismatch, you can choose to adjust. Openly talking about communication styles in relationships often clears up misunderstandings. These styles of communication in relationships refer to the different habits couples develop in conversation.
Passive Communication
Prioritize connection, not control.Assertiveness isn’t about winning—it’s about expressing honestly while listening with care. Letting go of control allows space for emotional trust to grow. Aggressive behavior may stem from insecurity or past trauma, but it can create an atmosphere of fear rather than safety. When one partner uses aggression to dominate, open communication shuts down.
Their age, race, ethnicity, gender, marital status, income, education level, subject knowledge, and professional experience can all affect how they’ll receive your message. In face-to-face conversation, body language plays an important role. Communication is 55 percent non-verbal, 38 percent vocal (tone and inflection), and 7 percent words, according to Albert Mehrabian, a researcher who pioneered studies on body language 2. Up to 93 percent of communication, then, does not involve what you are actually saying. Our solutions go beyond active listening techniques to upskill your team so they truly listen to understand. Or, build conversational skills across your team to scale a culture of open communication and feedback across your entire organization.
