Defensive behaviour examples Let’s break down the domino effect of defensiveness on our lives. Both groups continuously adapt to their changing roles within ecosystems. Instead, they blame their partner. A person may show defensiveness in several ways. Nov 5, 2023 · As a therapist, you will often find yourself in situations when your client is displaying adaptive and maladaptive behaviors, perceptions, and thoughts in response to distress. Therefore, exploration of one’s defensiveness and highlighting a leader’s self-awareness about the potential impact can be a very useful developmental tool. As a result, the problem is not resolved and the conflict escalates further, which paves the way for other horsemen, like criticism and contempt , to enter into the argument. Considering the results of these behaviors in organizations, an effective leader should avoid defensive behaviors and establish supportive behaviors. May 7, 2025 · Understanding defensive behavior: Explore the biological and psychological factors behind our reactions to perceived threats. Recognizing these behaviors can improve your interactions and foster better communication. It is the type of threat we perceive which triggers specific defensive behavior. Here are a few relatable defensive behaviour examples that many might have experienced or witnessed in everyday life: a) Parent-child interaction. However, when an expression starts with “where,” and the tone accompanying it is overwrought or Understanding Defensive Behavior. Learning Objectives 1. Examples of Defensive Communication. When defensive behaviour occurs, providing clear direction helps the individual feel safe and regain composure. Defensive communication is a communicative behavior that occurs within relationships, work environments, and social groups [1] [2] when an individual reacts in a defensive manner in response to a self-perceived flaw or a threat from outsiders. Both studies revealed an increase in defensiveness when individuals were faced with a social or moral threat. Many of us experience it at different points in our lives, whether it’s during an argument with a loved one, receiving constructive criticism at work, or even when facing challenging situations. Sep 15, 2024 · As research in defensive behavior psychology continues to evolve, we can look forward to new insights and strategies for managing these complex aspects of human behavior. Past experiences also play a crucial role in defensive behavior. Individuals at this level may begin pacing nervously as their heightened anxiety makes them feel like they’re being challenged. At their root, all defensive behaviors have this in common: sending a message to the other person that what the person is saying is wrong or a problem. Defensive behavior is a common human response that can manifest in various ways. Jul 3, 2023 · This makes identifying and addressing defensive behavior critical to the long-term success of a relationship. According to a study, defensive behavior is a prosocial behavior that can be defined as “a behavioral response to threatening situations for survival and body safety of oneself and others. Daramus: Making excuses: If someone critiques you, you might bring up excuses and explanations as to why you aren't to blame. So when their partner questions them about something, they lash out with defensive actions to keep others away so that nothing bad happens again. If you're a man who realizes that you tend to blanket your grief and other emotions with anger, you can learn to make room for a range of feelings Find 30 synonyms for Defensive Behavior to improve your writing and expand your vocabulary. In nature, defensive responses to risky situations or stimuli, such as a predatory encounters, can broadly be divided into two categories; immediate defensive responses to a direct encounter (flight), or avoidance behaviors that decrease the probability of encountering Sep 22, 2024 · CPI Techniques for Addressing Defensive Behavior. This behavior, though natural, is destructive—but it doesn’t have to be. First up, the strain on personal and professional relationships. The underlying thread, however, is often a perceived threat to one’s self-esteem or sense of security. This behavior may therefore induce the predator to give up. Examples of Defensive Behavior in the Workplace Blaming others: When a mistake is made or a project fails, some people may immediately look for someone else to blame rather than taking responsibility for their own actions. Defensive behavior refers to actions or reactions aimed at protecting oneself from emotional harm. For example, defensive behaviors, such as rolling the eyes, not listening, making excuses, or blaming others can cause your communication partner to argue back louder, walk away, blame you back, and gunnysack (a non-productive conflict tactic where one saves up or “gunnysacks” all their complaints until they burst with anger, spilling all Feb 14, 2024 · Reversing defensive behaviors. For some, it might be criticism from a loved one. Overall, it divides people’s behavioral patterns into two major categories, and each of them comprises six specific points, as presented in Table 1. Suppose a teenager has an aggressive defensive personality. Risk Behaviour If a person communicates that he or she is right all the time and is never open to employees' ideas, he or she will create a defensive communication climate. Jul 25, 2024 · Defensive Behavior Examples. May 25, 2025 · The defensive partner in this example isn’t taking responsibility for breaking their promise. Now that we’ve identified the signs, let’s explore how CPI techniques can help address defensive behavior. If you lack the skills to communicate in an assertive way, or feel anxious socially, this might translate into defensive behavior. These behaviors are rapidly acquired in response to stimuli associated with predators or pain, and may be linked to specific anxiety disorders. Let’s explore seven examples of defensive behavior. If anxiety is not diffused, defensive behaviour typically follows. Definition and Examples. How to Identify Defensiveness in a Relationship. - Defensive: Evaluation, Control, Strategy, Neutrality, superiority & Certainly P320 - Supportive: Description, Problem Orientation, Spontaneity, Empathy, Equality & Provisionalism Aug 18, 2021 · Defensiveness might present as a response to what you’re saying in the moment, but often has very deep roots. Are you being defensive or are you continuing the conversation? If you’ve never had healthy communication modeled for you, it can be hard to know the difference. If you are feeling guilty about something and someone else Jun 28, 2022 · Defensive behavior can also stem from trauma. An example of defensive behavior stemming from trauma is when someone has been through abuse in the past and has a hard time trusting other people because of it. Relationship satisfaction often suffers when one or both parties frequently engage in defensive behaviors. Defensive behaviors describe the responses of individuals to threatening stimuli (Blanchard, 2008). Sep 15, 2024 · Common triggers for defensive reactions can vary widely from person to person. Jack says, “I can’t believe you haven’t started dinner. Risk Behavior Apr 21, 2021 · 3. For example, if someone came from an abusive household or abusive relationship, having a disagreement or conflict with a partner might trigger those memories and lead to that person trying to protect themselves. For example, your husband forgets to pass along a message, your wife forgets to pick up milk at the store, or your partner says something that Sep 22, 2024 · Defensive behavior isn’t just an annoying habit—it’s a relationship wrecking ball and a personal growth roadblock. Mar 6, 2024 · Justifying an unacceptable feeling or behavior with logic: Being denied a loan for your dream house, then saying it's a good thing because the house was too big anyway: Regression: Reverting to earlier behaviors: Hugging a teddy bear when you're stressed, like you did when you were a child: Reaction Formation: Replacing an unwanted impulse with Aug 31, 2020 · It is normal to be a little peeved when the other partner changes behavior without explanation. Dec 27, 2021 · Defensive Behavior. By understanding defensiveness and learning healthier responses, it’s possible to strengthen Oct 20, 2021 · This psychological defense mechanism is often used by couples during conflict and can lead to a vicious cycle where both partners become critical and defensive. Self-esteem plays a pivotal role in defensive behaviors. These are known as defensive mechanisms. Imagine a hypothetical couple Jack and Jill. Understanding the underlying defensive triggers is vital for leaders aiming to foster a collaborative work environment. The morning janitor, your project partner, an assistant, anyone can be defensive. In this section, we will explore various instances of defensive communication through illustrative examples. They are questioned by a parent about why they came home late. Behaviors that may present a risk to self or others Examples: Hitting, throwing of objects, self injuries, fighting with others APA Dictionary of Psychology Below are some of the typical causes or origins of being defensive: 2 A reaction to feeling insecure or fearful. Examine and apply effective interventions for defensive behaviors. Nov 8, 2023 · Defensive Behaviour Examples. Sep 11, 2024 · Understanding these complex behaviors highlights the interplay between predatory and defensive behaviors. For example, you think you’re simply offering feedback about an article the person wrote, but they could be internalizing it as reinforcement that they are not capable or that you don’t want them on your team. Defensive behavior in employees often emerges as a common response to perceived criticism or threat, frequently manifesting as withdrawal, aggression, or rationalization. It is the skill of non-defensive responding. Since this is a waste of time for both of you, you will need to develop an action plan to give feedback to a defensive to the employee in a way that they will listen so Feb 4, 2022 · The framework described by Jack Gibb provides a comprehensive understanding of the difference between defensive and supportive environments. 2 Avoidance mechanisms. To illustrate how these euphemisms can be applied in real conversations, here are three example dialogues using the most effective options: Example 1: Using “Overly Attuned to Feedback” Manager: “I’ve noticed that you’re very attentive to feedback, and that’s a great quality. She’s sitting on the couch reading the paper. If anxiety is not diffused, defensive behavior typically follows. This involves outright denying an issue, accusation, or problem. Gibbs Defensive Behaviors & Examples Defensive listening definition revolves around a person who can create wrong impressions from simple comments and answers from anyone. This will help you to anticipate when is your behavior change most likely to happen and controlling it becomes easier. Jack comes home from work and is tired and hungry. The Crisis Development Behavior Levels: Understanding and Responding to Escalating Situations is a cornerstone of CPI’s approach. 2. One of the biggest impediments to giving improvement feedback is the desire to avoid conflict—or, more specifically, fearing how the other person will react and feeling ill-equipped to handle any defensive or emotional reactions. Defensive behavior is defined as that behavior which occurs when an individual perceives threat or anticipates threat in the group. This model outlines the stages of crisis escalation Jan 6, 2025 · Defensive behaviors significantly impact personal relationships. Feb 14, 2024 · Defensive behaviour example #1 Description: The idealistic leader who protects themselves from the harsh realities of work by pretending everything is positive. ” Tell them what behavior makes you realize that you’re feeling defensive. Mar 20, 2025 · What does defensive behavior look like? Defensive behavior can range from minor to severe, depending on the circumstances. They will spend a great deal of time and energy (both of yours) defending their actions. But there are a number of ways that defensiveness can manifest itself in human behavior. It can be hard to spot defensiveness in the moment. 4. . Jun 1, 2023 · Once you’ve identified the what and the why, it’s time to share these insights with those around you and openly acknowledge your defensive reaction. 1. Find When Do You Become Defensive: You can use a journal for this particular step. More frequently, however Apr 13, 2018 · Defensive behavior usually stems from a perceived threat. Each example illuminates common defensive behaviors encountered in professional settings, highlighting how they can undermine teamwork and productivity. This is especially important to understand when it comes to financial conflict as defensiveness stops couples from productive problem solving and stops financial empathy and intimacy. At times Oct 8, 2024 · What are defensive behaviors? Defensive behaviors are a set of responses that can be triggered when we perceive a threat to our self-esteem, identity, or beliefs. Defensive behavior manifests in various ways, often as a response to perceived threats. Jan 21, 2025 · Description: Delve into Defensive Communication Examples in the Workplace with this insightful guide, perfect for managers, employees, and HR professionals. Often triggered by feelings of criticism or blame, it shifts the focus away from resolving conflicts and toward protecting oneself. For example Why People Get Defensive. Apr 27, 2023 · Managers can create a work environment that discourages defensive behavior by fostering open communication, providing regular opportunities for feedback, offering training and resources to improve emotional intelligence and communication skills, promoting a culture of trust and support, and leading by example through their own actions and behavior. These examples highlight how defensive leadership habits can detrimentally impact a team and how the leader may lack awareness of this impact. Jill got home from her job one hour before. A reaction to anxiety or inability to be assertive. May 12, 2022 · Learn more about defensive behavior, and get advice on how to approach and resolve conflict with a defensive person. If we have been criticized or confronted harshly in the past, we may react defensively to similar situations in the future. SMIdentify different levels of defensive behavior in the Verbal Escalation Continuum. It’s realizing when it’s happening. Apr 22, 2019 · Defensive behavior at work is something we all have to deal with, and it doesn’t only come from bosses or those in positions of power. “To be defensive is to react with an overprotective mentality to a situation that perhaps doesn't warrant it,” marriage therapist Linda Carroll, LMFT , writes at mbg. What do I mean by this? Let me give you an example. The person who behaves defensively, even though he or she also gives some attention to the common task, devotes an appreciable portion of energy to defending himself or herself. It can Apr 22, 2024 · Once again, being defensive is a way to feel more in control and powerful. Sep 1, 2022 · She offers some examples: "If you're a woman who cries instead of connecting with her anger, for example, you can begin to practice experiencing your anger directly and learning to be more assertive. Defensive Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster 6. Jul 27, 2023 · Let’s look at some common examples of defensive behavior in the workplace that we get to see. May 13, 2025 · 3 Example Dialogues for Constructive Feedback. Defensiveness can manifest in various ways within our relationships Here are just a few examples: Denying responsibility; Blaming one's actions on someone/something else Oct 11, 2021 · Defensive Behaviour. Example 1: Denial. ” One of the most common reasons couples and families give me for coming Apr 27, 2024 · What is Defensive Behavior? Defensive behavior encompasses a range of actions and reactions we employ to protect ourselves from perceived threats or attacks. We react to different stimuli in different ways, and the same goes when we are being defensive. Defensiveness usually serves as a protective mechanism to shield us from emotional harm and maintain a sense of self-worth. You’re not judging the person; you’re describing the behaviour and how it affects you. It can also […] Chris Argyris has extensively researched and written about how well-meaning, smart people create vicious cycles of defensive behavior. They’re a set of behaviors that your client has learned to rely on in times of stress. Characteristics: Overly-optimistic, impractical, unrealistic, lacks focus, inaccurate, and unreliable Jul 4, 2020 · Defensive behavior is when an employee detects a threat, like a critique of their work. In those moments it is crucial to pay attention to how you feel and how you are reacting to others. To do that, you’ll need to get specific about what “defensive” means, in terms of the direct’s behavior. Mar 23, 2021 · The steps to address systemic defensiveness is similar to the steps above, except it’s the defensive behaviors themselves that need to be addressed. Deflecting blame: If someone accuses you of doing something wrong, you might deflect by reminding them of something they've done wrong, to shift the focus Sep 28, 2021 · Examples of defensive reactions. com Understanding Defensive Behavior. Understanding Defensive Behavior Defensive communication leads to the degrading of discourse in a group. For others, it could be a challenging situation at work. Nov 10, 2022 · Moments of defensive behavior can happen with a partner, a child, your mother, or even a co-worker—all relationships will inevitably suffer at some points from a breakdown in communication. A reaction to shame or guilt. For example, if a person says something you disagree with, and you make a sarcastic comment or criticize them for saying something to you, it may be a defensive response. Despite being common in the workplace, defensiveness is not something that’s easy to deal with. May 7, 2021 · Well-known therapist and author, Terry Real, states: “Relationality is about accountability, vulnerability, and empathy. They can create barriers to intimacy and hinder effective communication between partners, friends, or family members. In the 17 years since the publication of his book, Overcoming Organizational Defenses, this pervasive and insidious reality has been well documented by scholarly research. See full list on betterhelp. Gibb Categories: 6 Defense arousing behaviors and 6 contrasting behaviors that lessen the threat. aggressive or submissive behavior in response to real or imagined threats Understand the Defensive Behavior. Jan 23, 2025 · Defensiveness can undermine relationships, making meaningful communication feel impossible. Oct 31, 2022 · Defensive behavior is so common in arguments that it may feel like just part of the normal back-and-forth of two people hashing out a disagreement. Jan 1, 2022 · In the defensive system, the importance of reciprocal signals between prey and predator has been stressed by Kavaliers and Choleris (2001). See above for the behaviors we’re talking about when we say “defensiveness Defensive behavior refers to a set of evolved responses to threats, such as flight, freezing, defensive threat, defensive attack, and risk assessment. Conflict happens frequently in personal relationships, at work, and even in public. Work On Your Self Esteem: Let’s take an example. You might say, “I just realized I started raising my voice,” or “My stomach churned when you mentioned that. Using fictional couples, we will demonstrate both unhelpful and constructive responses to defensiveness. The Verbal Escalation ContinuumSM helps you recognize behaviors at the Defensive level and identify the de-escalation strategies to use for each stage. Brave leaders combat this type of defensive behavior in the workplace by setting healthy boundaries among their team members. Defensive behavior is like throwing up a wall between you and others. Future studies may delve deeper into the neurobiological underpinnings of defensive mechanisms or explore innovative therapeutic approaches for addressing deeply ingrained Feb 14, 2025 · These are some examples of defensive behavior, according to Dr. This ongoing dance of Survival Strategies reveals the intricate dynamics of animal behavior. Defensive behaviors may include: Becoming argumentative Other articles where defensive behavior is discussed: aggressive behaviour: The nature of animal aggression: Aggression sometimes occurs when parents defend their young from attack by members of their own species. 3. Female mice, for example, defend their pups against hostile neighbours, while male stickleback fish defend eggs and fry against cannibalistic attack. If you think you adopt a defensive attitude towards others, you can do the following to avoid this type of attitude: Become aware of the defensive attitude: In order to stop a defensive behavior. When defensive behavior occurs, providing clear direction helps the individual feel safe and regain composure. You may become defensive around a certain person or particular type of situation. For example, you may say things like, “I’m concerned because you showed up late four times; I’m worried that we won’t get this project done on time”. As an example, prey risk-assessment represents per se a direct signaling to the predator that its presence has been detected. ozo uaseo roq xhdwc vdcedz itikfla wcdy cxb ynvqrt sgny