Nonviolent communication (NVC), also known as “compassionate communication,” is a method for resolving difficult situations with other people in our lives. It was developed by Marshall Rosenberg. Whether the conflict arises with a neighbor, a child, a colleague, or a parent, this form of communication allows a person to change their perception of themselves and others in order to achieve a more harmonious outcome.

Goals and Techniques of Nonviolent Communication

Rather than relying on instinctive behaviors such as defending, criticizing, or attacking, clients who use Non-Violent Communication begin to see things more objectively and respectively. The goal of NVC is to create compassion in the interpersonal relationships and to use people's inner power to foster unity amongst everyone concerned, while meeting the needs of each party. Rather than wielding fear, shame, blame, or guilt as a weapon for prodding someone into action, NVC employs empathy and compassion as its primary tools to motivate. The goal of NVC is to allow someone to achieve results without harboring feelings of guilt about the method they used. By allowing each party to contribute in a respectful manner, the needs of all can be met in a more cohesive, reciprocating fashion.

Focus of Nonviolent Communication

NVC focuses on discovering the human needs behind the emotions. Instead of judging a person’s reaction of fear or blame, NVC encourages a person to dissect and dismantle the emotion to determine what the underlying need is. By doing so, each party involved can more accurately connect to the desires of the others. This “Life Language” allows each person to relate to one another in a truly human way and motivates people to want to provide for the needs of others in a consciously united manner.

Resources Related to Non-Violent Communication

• Inspirational Friends
• The Center for Nonviolent Communication

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Last updated: 05-14-2013