Passive-aggressive behavior: How can I recognize it?

What are the signs and symptoms of passive-aggressive behavior?

- No name / No state given

Answer

Passive-aggressive behavior is a pattern of expressing your negative feelings in an indirect and often obstructive way — instead of openly addressing them.

People who are passive-aggressive appear to comply with the requests of others. They may even seem enthusiastic about them. But they don't perform the requested action on time or in a useful way. In other words, they use nonverbal behavior to express anger or resentment that they can't express verbally. An example is showing up very late to a meeting that you didn't really want to attend and then making up excuses for your lateness that deflect attention from the real reason you were late.

Although passive-aggressive behavior can be a feature of some psychiatric disorders, it is not considered a mental illness. Researchers are studying how to classify habitual and problematic behaviors such as passive-aggressiveness. If such behavior is troublesome or interferes with your relationships or daily activities, consult a therapist who can help you identify and change the behavior.

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