|
| |
Passive-aggressive behavior is the indirect expression of hostility. It is associated with actions and communication that are designed to derail a strategy, trigger emotions of a target or damage their reputation. Such actions may be taken in secret. Alternatively, they may occur in the open in such a way that they're technically not breaking any rules. There are several variations:
Strategy for the StuckThe term passive-aggressive originates as a military term. In a strict command and control system there is no way to openly resist without facing immediate punishment. Passive-aggressive resistance tends to pop up when people have little power to openly resist.Strategy for the WeakPassive-aggressive behavior also surfaces in situations where people are allowed to openly express alternative views and dissatisfaction. In this context, it is widely considered a weak and unethical technique.
HabitIt is possible for passive-aggressive behavior to become a habit that is used to cope with emotions or achieve objectives. This can be quite damaging as it tends to leave a person dwelling in negativity and subterfuge. For example, passive-aggressives often trigger the ire of other passive-aggressives in a downward spiral of passive-aggressiveness.Organizational CultureOrganizations in which people openly speak their minds are less likely to produce passive-aggressive behavior.
Office Politics
This is the complete list of articles we have written about office politics.
If you enjoyed this page, please consider bookmarking Simplicable.
© 2010-2023 Simplicable. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of materials found on this site, in any form, without explicit permission is prohibited.
View credits & copyrights or citation information for this page.
|
