Nonviolent Communication
Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a conflict prevention process, developed by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg Ph.D., that focuses on learning how to express one’s needs and feelings without blame and judgment and to listen empathically. The Nonviolent Communication process includes learning to observe rather than judge and respectfully express one’s needs and feelings. It also shines a light on how making requests instead of demands can establish greater rapport and collaboration. Studying and practicing NVC reframes limited perceptions and ingrained behavior patterns of criticism and judgment to establish greater respect and understanding. Recognizing the importance of observation rather than criticism, expressing needs and feelings, and making requests is a vital skill set for teachers, administrators, and adults of all ages.
NVC can be applied to virtually every relationship, with schools, family life, significant others, organizations and institutions, and diplomatic and business negotiations.
The Four-Part Nonviolent Communication Process
• Observations
• Feelings
• Needs
• Requests
This process is sometimes shortened to OFNR to help us more easily remember the four main components of NVC. Each component of NVC is a powerful learning tool.
Empathy
What really is empathy? The dictionary defines empathy as “the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.” This definition, however, can sometimes lead to confusion and misunderstanding. How can you understand the feelings of another person unless they share those feelings with you?
Most people do not possess an empathic superpower of comprehending the feelings of others. Learning to empathize with another involves first learning to articulate a range of needs and feelings.
The Empathic Approach aims to bring awareness to the way in which people relate and communicate with one another. This approach has proven to transform relationships within schools, organizations and other communities. This creates a safer and more stable environment which fosters a broader possibility for collaboration and cooporation.
We accomplish this by fostering:
- Collaborative Communication: A method of communicating that leads to productive conversations where all parties clearly express their needs and feelings without blame and judgment.
- Empathy: An aptitude for listening to others, being present, and mutual relating.
- Critical Thinking: The ability to approach situations and relationships from multiple perspectives.
Support our work as we endeavor to bring the principles of Nonviolent Communication into every school and organization!