Assertiveness as an antidote to conflict

Assertiveness is the crucial skill for managing conflict constructively.

It acts as a balancing point between two extremes of behavior: passivity and aggressiveness.

Mastering assertiveness allows a person to defend his or her rights and express his or her ideas and needs in a clear and respectful manner, without underestimating or dominating others.

Differences between communication styles

To better understand the value of assertiveness, it is useful to differentiate it from other communication styles:

Passive behavior: focuses on high concern for others and low concern for oneself.

People with this style avoid confrontation at all costs, often resulting in subordination of their own legitimate needs, rights, and opinions.

This lack of assertiveness generates internal conflict and a sense of disempowerment, as their main goal is not to be hurt.

They find it difficult to express their point of view or ask for help.

Aggressive behavior: It is characterized by a high concern for oneself and a low concern for others.

This style seeks to win at all costs, often at the expense of others, and may manifest itself through intimidation or verbal abuse.

Aggressive people have no qualms about expressing their opinions forcefully and blame others if they don't get what they want.

This approach can quickly escalate a conflict and severely damage working relationships.

Assertive behavior: Represents the ideal balance, with a balanced concern for self and others.

This style focuses on what is fair and right for all parties, with the goal of achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.

Assertive people are not afraid to ask for help or give their opinion, and do so in a respectful and considerate manner.

They recognize their own rights and needs while valuing and respecting those of others.

Benefits of assertiveness

Assertiveness is not only effective in resolving conflict, but also offers important benefits for professional relationships:

Reduces tension: By openly communicating needs and feelings in a respectful manner, it prevents problems from building up and turning into resentment.

Increases confidence: Practicing assertiveness strengthens self-esteem, as you learn to stand up for your own rights and value yourself.

Facilitates agreement: By recognizing and respecting the other person's perspective, you create a collaborative environment in which it is easier to reach mutually satisfactory solutions.

In a conflict, assertiveness is the best way to de-escalate the situation and guide both parties towards a fair and equitable solution.

Summary

Assertiveness is a crucial skill to manage conflicts constructively, acting as a balance between passivity and aggressiveness. It allows defending one's rights and expressing ideas in a clear and respectful manner.

Passive behavior avoids confrontation, subordinating one's own needs, which generates disempowerment. The aggressive style seeks to win at all costs, and can quickly escalate a conflict and seriously damage labor relations.

Assertiveness, with its balanced concern, focuses on what is fair to all parties. It reduces tension, increases trust and facilitates mutually satisfactory agreements, being the best way to de-escalate any situation.