Passive-aggressive behavior

Passive-aggressive behavior

Passive-aggressive behavior is a type of behavior characterized by indirect resistance to the demands of others and an avoidance of direct confrontation.

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈpæsɪv əˈɡrɛsɪv biˈheɪvjər/

Etymology

The term "passive-aggressive" was first used during World War II when the U.S. Department of War described soldiers who were not openly defiant but expressed their aggressiveness "passively".

Definition

Passive-aggressive behavior is a pattern of indirectly expressing negative feelings instead of openly addressing them. This behavior involves a range of actions designed to get back at others without them recognizing the underlying anger.

Characteristics

Passive-aggressive behavior may manifest in many ways, including but not limited to:

• Procrastination
• Stubbornness
• Forgetfulness
• Deliberate inefficiency
• Negativity
• Sarcasm
• Hostility

Causes

The exact cause of passive-aggressive behavior isn't known. However, both biological and environmental factors may contribute to the development of these behaviors.

Related Terms

• Aggression
• Behavior
• Procrastination
• Stubbornness
• Negativity
• Sarcasm
• Hostility

See Also

• Personality Disorders
• Conflict Resolution
• Communication Styles

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Passive-aggressive behavior
• Wikipedia's article - Passive-aggressive behavior

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