How to Recognize Passive Aggressive Behavior

Chances are we have all dealt with someone displaying passive aggressive behavior or may have even caught ourselves portraying this unflattering personality trait. Mayo Clinic psychiatrist Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D. describes passive aggression as "a pattern of expressing your negative feelings in an indirect way --- instead of openly addressing them." Outwardly, the passive aggressive personality may seem enthusiastic or pleasant but the underlying negativity soon bubbles up to the surface. Use the following signs and symptoms to recognize a passive aggressive personality.

Instructions

How to Recognize Passive Aggressive Behavior

• 1

  Watch for sullen behavior. A passive aggressive person will often mope around feeling sullen and downtrodden. He or she will attempt to make this sour mood known by all and cast a shadow over otherwise pleasant activities or events.

• 2

  Pay attention to task performance. The passive aggressive person may appear outwardly excited to perform a task, but their personal performance is often lacking. He or she may claim forgetfulness or inexperience if confronted.

• 3

  Apply the mantra "Actions speak louder than words." A passive aggressive person will often say one thing and do the opposite. He may insist he is not angry while slamming a door or stomping away. She may jump at the opportunity to attend an event and then never show.

• 4

  Note destructive verbal comments. A passive aggressive person will gossip, blame or otherwise verbally undermine the integrity of others, especially in situations where working in a group toward a common goal is required.