This article was written by Steven Hesky, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Dr. Steven Hesky is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 37 years of experience. He specializes in long-term psychotherapy with adults and adolescents. His training includes Freudian, Jungian, and Existential approaches to psychotherapy, hypnosis, family therapy, marriage counseling, and biofeedback. Dr. Hesky holds a BA in Philosophy from Lake Forest College and an MA and PhD in Existential Clinical Psychology from Duquesne University.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
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We all know someone who is super passive-aggressive: instead of just telling you why they’re upset, they might make snide remarks or criticize you in little ways. Over time, passive-aggressive behavior can get really irritating, especially if you see this person often. Fortunately, there are concrete ways you can deal with a passive-aggressive person (and hopefully get them to turn their behavior around). Keep reading for expert tips on counteracting passive-aggressive behavior, even when you’re super annoyed by it.
Things You Should Know
- Stay calm and don’t get defensive. That way, the passive-aggressive person can’t paint themselves as the victim.
- Ask them what their comment or behavior means to put them on the spot. That way, they’ll have to either backpedal or admit what they’re doing.
- Set clear boundaries by outlining what behavior isn’t acceptable, and check in often to see if they’re following through.
Steps
Expert Q&A
Tips
References
- ↑ https://psychcentral.com/relationships/how-to-deal-with-a-passive-aggressive-person#how-to-respond
- ↑ https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/people-managers/pages/passive-aggressive-workers-.aspx
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/how-be-yourself/202010/5-ways-deal-passive-aggressive-people
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/how-be-yourself/202010/5-ways-deal-passive-aggressive-people
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/how-be-yourself/202010/5-ways-deal-passive-aggressive-people
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"I can't call it "success" story yet but as one of 38 tenants in a building housing low income elderly and disabled tenants, there is one who is a mean bully. Your article has given me a few new ways to quiet this down-hopefully. We will see. Thanks!!!"..." more