Labeling and diagnosis is a catastrophic way to communicate. Telling other people what's wrong with them greatly reduces, almost to zero, the probability that we're going to get what we're after.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
Violence in any form is a tragic expression of our unmet needs.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Violence reflects deeper emotional needs that are not being addressed.
This quote by Marshall B. Rosenberg highlights the idea that acts of violence often stem from unmet needs such as connection, understanding, or empathy. It invites us to look beyond the surface of aggressive behavior and recognize the underlying vulnerabilities and desires that drive such actions, encouraging us to approach conflicts with compassion and a desire to fulfill those needs.
Themes
ViolenceNeedsEmpathyUnderstandingCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
During a community meeting about reducing violence, this quote can be used to foster understanding.
More from Marshall B. Rosenberg
All quotes βWhether I praise or criticize someone's action, I imply that I am their judge, that I'm engaged in rating them or what they have done.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
In nonviolent communication, no matter what words others may use to express themselves, we simply listen for their observations, feelings, needs, and requests. Then we may wish to reflect back, paraphrasing what we have understood. We stay with empathy, allowing others the opportunity to fully express themselves before we turn our attention to solutions or requests for relief.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
All that has been integrated into NVC has been known for centuries about consciousness, language, communication skills, and use of power that enable us to maintain a perspective of empathy for ourselves and others, even under trying conditions.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
The punitive use of force tends to generate hostility and to reinforce resistance to the very behavior we are seeking.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
Expressing our vulnerability can help resolve conflicts.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
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