What defines passive communication?

Passive communication is characterized by the avoidance of expressing thoughts, feelings, or opinions openly. Individuals who communicate passively often prioritize the feelings of others over their own, leading them to suppress their thoughts and refrain from standing up for themselves. This can result in misunderstandings or unaddressed personal needs, as passive communicators may feel uncomfortable being direct or may fear conflict.

In contrast, the other options depict different communication styles. Expressing opinions boldly reflects assertive communication, where individuals share their thoughts confidently and respectfully. Being assertive in discussions involves openly and effectively stating one’s views while also listening to others, which is not aligned with passivity. Lastly, sharing feelings in an intimidating manner suggests a more aggressive approach, where the communicator may dominate conversations or make others feel uncomfortable, which also falls outside the realm of passive communication. Thus, the essence of passive communication lies in the reluctance to express oneself.