Interpersonal Communication- A Mindful Approach to Relationships, 2020a

Denial of due process in meetings
Denial of meal breaks
Compiling unsubstantiated Written records
Denial of sick, study or conference leave
Unfair rostering practices
Economic sanctions
Rostering to lower-paid shift work
Limiting the opportunity to work
Dismissal from position
Reclassifying position to lower status
Table 14.2 Bullying in the Workplace: Behaviors and Tactics
Relationships involve work! Media portrays relationships as romantic endeavors, and the darker side
of relationships remains buried. In real-life, individuals may be inclined to hide relationship difficulties,
which further perpetuates the notion that relationships simply happen and that everyone lives happily
ever after.
Research repeatedly demonstrates that how emotion is communicated will affect the outcome of
the communication situation. Relationship partners are more satisfied when positive emotions are
communicated rather than negative emotions. Four forms of anger expression have been identified. 58
The four forms of anger expression range from direct and nonthreatening to avoidance and denial of
angry feelings. Anger expression is more productive when the emotion is communicated directly and in a
nonthreatening manner. In most circumstances, direct communication is more constructive.
Assertion
Aggression
Form of Expression
Explanation of Form
Direct statements, nonthreatening, explaining
anger
Direct and threatening, may involve criticism
Passive Aggression
Avoidance
Table 14.3 Forms of Anger Expression
Indirectly communicate negative affect in a
destructive manner – “the silent treatment”
Avoiding the issue, denying angry feelings,
pretending not to feel anything
When communicating with one’s relational partner, adopting an affirming communicator style may
lead to positive outcomes. The affirming communicator style was initially conceptualized to involve
friendly, relaxed, and attentive behaviors. 59 The friendly communicator style involves encouraging others,
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Interpersonal Communication