How to Handle Passive Aggression

Passive aggression is one of the most challenging behaviors to address. Passive aggressive people appear sweet and helpful; however, don't be fooled by their overt actions. Passive aggressive people have difficulty expressing their frustrations overtly; so they turn to subversive measures, such as gossiping, lying or failing to complete things on time. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

1. Remain calm in the presence of a passive aggressive person no matter what happens. Seeing you disturbed and distraught reinforces the behavior.

2. Stop feeling guilty for the passive aggressive person's behavior. The passive aggressive person may try to make you feel guilty, but you need to remember that this person is responsible for his own interactions with others.

3. Create a record of interactions with the person. Whenever possible, use email. Hold conversations with the person in the presence of other trusted people. Document all requests you make of the person and document the time and date you provide the person with information.

4. Discourage the person from continuing the passive aggressive cycle by confronting her when there are inconsistencies between what she says and what actually happened.

5. Hold the person to consistent expectations. If the person repeatedly gives excuses for why things are not done on time, don't reinforce them by saying, "Oh, I understand. Just get it done as soon as you can."

6. Maintain a balance between empathy and expectation. If the person asserts that he lost an assignment say, "I am sorry that you lost it. I still need the assignment turned in by noon today."

7. Create a climate of open communication whenever possible. If the person does directly approach you with their feelings and frustrations, respond without hostility. The person will be more likely to openly address frustrations if they feel safe doing so in your presence.