26 - Passive Aggressive Behavior Is The Worst

Host: Dr. Tara Egan, Cohost: Anna

Today's solo episode tackles the term "passive-aggressive behavior." Tara and Anna admit that they "police" this type of behavior in their home, as it is not okay.

Definition: you appear passive on the surface, but you're really acting out anger in a subtle, indirect, or behind-the-scenes way.

Dr. Egan often illustrates an example of passive aggressive behavior by discussing an incident with a doughnut.

Defining feature: manipulating someone's feelings to elicit a particular behavior/response.

Different types of passive aggressive behavior:
1) sarcasm
2) back-handed compliment
3) playing the victim
4) feigning helplessness
5) the silent treatment
6) acting sullen, pouty, or moody
7) acting deliberately obtuse/stupid

Dr. Egan and Anna discuss the impact of passive-aggressive behavior on family relationships, including disconnection, emotional fatigue, inducing shame, feeling like they're always "in trouble," & emotional manipulation. They discuss the benefits of gently calling out this type of behavior while recognizing that kids aren't responsible for teaching their parent to communicate in a more healthy and direct way. Passive aggressive behavior can appear to "work" sometimes, reinforcing its use.

Today's episode is sponsored by Sparent, a kick-ass company that provides employment opportunities to parents who have marketable skills. If you'd like to become a Sparent, visit their website HERE.

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This episode was edited by Laura Bauder from PodcastHERS.