-
Step 1
Trust your instincts. Passive aggressive people, by definition, will never say bluntly that they are dissatisfied with you in any way. You might be confused if you feel you have been undermined by somebody who has always been pleasant to you. You're not stupid; rather, passive aggressive people are not clear about their feelings.
-
Step 2
Watch what he does, rather than what he says. Passive aggressive people frequently agree to tasks that they have no intention of following through with. This may be conscious or not. However, if he shows a pattern of missing deadlines or "forgetting" appointments, he is displaying passive aggressive behavior.
-
Step 3
Find out what she says about you when you aren't around. Passive aggressive people frequently vent their frustrations to others instead of confronting you directly. If you strongly suspect she has been gossiping about you, poke around discreetly and check.
-
Step 4
Listen to how he talks about himself. Passive aggressive people feel resentful and powerless over their own lives. He may blame his parents, co-workers or friends, or even claim that he's been cursed. He blames misfortune on anything but his own decisions.
-
Step 5
Keep your ears pricked for backhanded compliments or insults disguised as jokes. Though she would never admit it, this is a way showing you anger, envy or resentment. If she continually makes poisonous remarks that undermine your self-image, you are dealing with passive aggressive behavior.
