Practice Question
A nurse is reviewing communication styles. Which of the following characteristics should the nurse identify as being exhibited by an aggressive communicator? (Select All that Apply.)
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Is often controlling during conversations.
Rationale:
"Is often controlling during conversations"
➤ Aggressive communicators typically attempt to dominate interactions, often using a loud tone, interrupting others, or insisting on their own point of view without regard for the rights of others.
➤ This communication style is authoritarian, and reflects a desire to maintain power over the conversation.
➤ Such behavior can create a threatening or intimidating environment, especially in healthcare or group settings.
➤ In therapeutic relationships, this hinders trust-building and mutual respect.
➤ Nurses must recognize this behavior as a maladaptive coping mechanism, often used by individuals with underlying anxiety, fear, or low self-esteem.
"Tends to blame others for misunderstandings"
➤ Blaming others reflects a refusal to take responsibility for miscommunication, a hallmark of aggressive communicators.
➤ This deflective behavior contributes to interpersonal conflict and erodes the ability to problem-solve collaboratively.
➤ In clinical settings, this may lead to ineffective teamwork and reduced patient safety.
➤ It reflects a low emotional intelligence, as the communicator may lack insight into their own role in misunderstandings.
➤ Recognizing this helps nurses mediate conflict and coach clients or staff toward assertive communication strategies.
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This question is from RN ATI NL33 Mental Health Exam 1 which contains 46 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI Mental Health
- Answer Choices: 5