In Non-Violent Communication, what is the first distinction to be made?

In Non-Violent Communication, what is the first distinction to be made?

• A. Make requests not demands
• B. Make observations not evaluations
• C. Express feelings not thoughts
• D. Identify needs not strategies

Answer: (B)

The correct choice highlights the importance of making observations rather than evaluations in Non-Violent Communication (NVC). This distinction is crucial because it lays the foundation for effective communication and understanding. Observations are objective statements about what is happening, free of interpretations, judgments, or assumptions. For example, saying "You are speaking loudly" is an observation, while saying "You are being rude" is an evaluation. By focusing on observations, individuals can communicate in a way that is less likely to provoke defensiveness or conflict. This objective clarity helps both the speaker and listener connect around shared experiences without the emotional charge that evaluations often carry. Hence, making observations acts as a bridge to discussing feelings, needs, and ultimately requests, promoting a deeper understanding and connection between individuals.

The correct choice highlights the importance of making observations rather than evaluations in Non-Violent Communication (NVC). This distinction is crucial because it lays the foundation for effective communication and understanding. Observations are objective statements about what is happening, free of interpretations, judgments, or assumptions. For example, saying "You are speaking loudly" is an observation, while saying "You are being rude" is an evaluation.

By focusing on observations, individuals can communicate in a way that is less likely to provoke defensiveness or conflict. This objective clarity helps both the speaker and listener connect around shared experiences without the emotional charge that evaluations often carry. Hence, making observations acts as a bridge to discussing feelings, needs, and ultimately requests, promoting a deeper understanding and connection between individuals.