Passive–aggressive

Passive–aggressive behavior is a pattern of indirectly expressing negative feelings instead of openly addressing them. This behavior is characterized by deliberate inefficiency, procrastination, stubbornness, and avoidance of responsibility.

Characteristics

Passive–aggressive behavior is a type of behavior characterized by indirect resistance to the demands of others and an avoidance of direct confrontation. It can manifest in many ways, including procrastination, stubbornness, and intentional mistakes, especially in response to demands by authority figures, but it can also occur in interpersonal contexts.

Causes

The causes of passive-aggressive behavior are complex and not fully understood. However, it is believed to stem from a fear of expressing anger or negative feelings directly. This fear may be rooted in traumatic childhood experiences, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; neglect; or early losses.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of passive-aggressive behavior can be challenging, as it often overlaps with other personality disorders, such as narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder. However, a trained mental health professional can make a diagnosis based on a thorough evaluation of the individual's symptoms and history.

Treatment

Treatment for passive-aggressive behavior typically involves psychotherapy, specifically cognitive-behavioral therapy. This type of therapy helps individuals identify and change thought patterns that lead to maladaptive behaviors. In some cases, medication may also be used to treat underlying issues such as depression or anxiety.

See also

• Personality disorder
• Narcissistic personality disorder
• Borderline personality disorder

References

Passive–aggressive Resources
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