What Is Critical Response?
Critical responses can be a risky form of communication. The person receiving the criticism may become offended and break off communication with you. You may receive a harsh criticism in return. The critical response could be taken as a constructive criticism and give the listener valuable feedback. Before giving a critical response, it is wise to try to predict the possible outcome.
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Constructive Criticism
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Constructive criticism is intended to correct a fault in the listener by bringing to his or her attention a defect. The speaker's goal is to promote a positive change in the listener. In optimum conditions, the speaker has a positive relationship with the listener that will not be altered by the negative message. The speaker assumes the listener will appreciate the input, although it may be initially painful to hear.
Insults
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Critical responses can take the form of insults. This form of verbal aggression can be an attack on the other person's character, appearance or competence. The motive is to humiliate and embarrass the listener and gain a position of power over him or her. There is no concern about the damage the criticism could cause to the relationship.
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Sarcasm
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Sarcastic responses are critical and often treat the listener as an idiot or fool. Not only does sarcasm serve to put the listener down, it also is intended to increase the speaker's self-esteem. The sarcastic speaker wants to be seen as clever, humorous and witty at the expense of others.
Objective Criticism
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Literary and artistic criticism try to be objective and evaluate the merits of a work without emotion or bias. The strengths and weaknesses of the work are highlighted without character assassination. Balance is the goal.
Hidden Criticism
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Back-handed compliments can be a destructive form of critical response. On the surface, the words sound complimentary, but between the lines is a biting remark that attacks the receiver. An example would be the newlywed husband who tells his wife that her meal is not the worst she's made.
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