Chapter 3: Post 1

This chapter is incredibly useful because it is easy to see where I stand in my communication styles. Unfortunately, I would say that I tend toward the "Other-centered Orientation." I am never the person who initiates conflict. If conflict does occur, I will take non-assertive action. According to the text, there are two modes of non-assertive behavior: Avoiding and Accommodating. Both of these are behaviors I am familiar with, but I would say I am usually accommodating. I tend to give in and oblige to whatever someone else wants in order to keep smooth waters. 

Initially, I am satisfied with the outcomes of these situations because I didn't want there to be any conflict. But there are many drawbacks to disregarding my self. I've been called a "pushover" and a "doormat." It is usually from those who are the "aggressive" type. While I'd rather be non-assertive than aggressive, I do need to stand up for myself and find a comfortable assertive approach to conflict.

While I tend to go right to non-assertive behavior, there are exceptions when I have taken a more aggressive action. When it comes to serious matters or something that has extremely offended me, I have spoken up immediately and said how I felt. Initially, it is highly uncomfortable because there are hurt feelings. But when both parties care enough about the relationship to repair the damage, the relationship is better than it was before. I need to remember this when the next conflict comes up because non-assertive behavior does not benefit the relationship at all. I hope through learning about these different communication styles, I can become better equipped to be assertive and have the recommended collaborative outcome.