This psychoeducational handout describes what passive-aggressive communication is, the factors that perpetuate it, and the negative consequences it can have for individuals and their relationships.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Passive-aggressive communication is a style in which individuals express negative feelings or needs indirectly rather than openly and directly. This form of communication can include sarcasm, backhanded compliments, sulking, or being intentionally obstructive.
This handout describes the common features of passive-aggressive communication and why it causes problems in a clear, client-friendly format. It can be used with clients who tend to communicate in this way or as an educational component of assertiveness training.
Many clients are unaware of their communication style and the impact it has on their relationships and wellbeing. This handout helps clients recognise passive-aggressive communication patterns and understand the consequences it has.
Clients who sometimes express their anger indirectly.
A correlate of self-directed passive-aggressive behavior.
Where indirect hostility is part of interpersonal dysfunction.
For identifying and changing patterns that damage relationships.
As a contrast to more adaptive communication styles.
Introduce clients to the idea of communication styles.
Use the handout to establish a shared understanding of passive-aggressive communication.
Help clients notice instances where they use passive-aggressive communication.
Explore the costs of this communication style and the benefits of change.
Highlight the differences between passive-aggressive and assertive communication.
Help the client learn and rehearse assertive communication skills.
Effective communication allows people to share information, coordinate actions, and achieve their goals in personal and professional settings (Rohner & Schutz, 2024). It is crucial for forming and maintaining healthy relationships, enabling people to express their needs, build trust, address misunderstandings, and resolve conflicts (McKay et al., 2018).
Research has identified several ‘communication styles’: clusters of conversational behaviours that constitute a communication pattern (Chłopicki, 2017). Passive-aggressive communication is a non-assertive style of communication. It is characterised by subtle and indirect self-expression, particularly of anger and related emotions (Bonham-Carter, 2012; Gál et al., 2025). This style usually stems from a desire to express oneself while avoiding direct conflict or confrontation, often due to concerns about the consequences of doing so.
Assertive communication, on the other hand, is regarded as an effective style across many situations (Hayward et al., 2012; Jakubowski & Lange, 1978; Linehan, 1979; Paterson, 2022). It involves expressing oneself clearly, directly, and honestly, while respecting one’s rights and the rights of others. Research has associated assertiveness with numerous benefits, including improved relationships, reduced work-related stress and burnout, and improved symptoms of anxiety and depression (e.g., Rakos, 1991; Speed et al., 2018; Suzuki et al., 2009).
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