DEFENSIVENESS in a Sentence Examples: 21 Ways to Use Defensiveness

Defensiveness, in interpersonal communication, refers to the reactiveness or sensitivity shown towards perceived criticism or a threat to one’s ego. This defensive behavior often manifests as a protective response aimed at guarding oneself from feelings of vulnerability or inferiority.

Common signs of defensiveness include making excuses, deflecting blame, or reacting with anger when faced with feedback or criticism. It can hinder effective communication and lead to misunderstandings in relationships. To improve interactions and create a more open dialogue, it is essential to recognize and address defensiveness within oneself and others.

7 Examples Of Defensiveness Used In a Sentence For Kids

1. Defensiveness is when we feel like we need to protect ourselves.
2. It’s okay to feel defensiveness sometimes, but we can try to talk about our feelings instead.
3. Using kind words can help us feel safe and reduce defensiveness.
4. When someone says something that makes us feel upset, it’s important to remember not to react with defensiveness.
5. We can ask for help if we’re feeling overwhelmed by defensiveness.
6. Taking deep breaths can help us calm down when we’re feeling defensiveness.
7. Remember, it’s important to listen to others without resorting to defensiveness.

14 Sentences with Defensiveness Examples

• Defensiveness can hinder constructive feedback from professors.
• Feeling defensiveness when receiving criticism is common among college students.
• It’s important to address defensiveness and listen openly during group projects.
• Defensiveness might arise when discussing controversial topics in class.
• Overcoming defensiveness can lead to personal growth and self-improvement.
• Struggling with defensiveness during debates can impede effective communication.
• Recognizing and managing defensiveness can lead to healthier relationships with peers.
• Defensiveness may be a barrier to embracing diverse perspectives in academic discussions.
• Facing defensiveness with an open mind can lead to better problem-solving skills.
• Engaging in self-reflection can help to identify triggers for defensiveness in interpersonal interactions.
• Overcoming defensiveness can improve collaboration and teamwork in academic projects.
• Addressing defensiveness in a calm and rational manner can help to de-escalate conflicts.
• Seeking support from peers or counselors can help to navigate feelings of defensiveness during college.
• Practicing active listening and empathy can help to reduce feelings of defensiveness in academic settings.

How To Use Defensiveness in Sentences?

Defensiveness is the act of protecting oneself from criticism or perceived threats. To use it correctly in a sentence, follow these steps:

1. Identify the situation: Think about a moment when someone may have felt attacked or criticized and responded defensively.

2. Use the word: Insert defensiveness into the sentence where it accurately describes the behavior or response of the individual. For example, “Her quick defensiveness when questioned about the project raised suspicions among the team.”

3. Context is key: Make sure the sentence provides enough context for the reader to understand why the individual is being defensive. Describe the situation or behavior leading to the defensive response.

4. Check for clarity: Read the sentence aloud to see if it makes sense and conveys the intended meaning. Ensure that defensiveness is used appropriately in the context of the sentence.

5. Practice using the word: To become more comfortable with using defensiveness in sentences, try incorporating it into everyday conversations or writing exercises. This will help you become more fluent in using the word accurately.

By following these steps and practicing using defensiveness in sentences, you will become more confident in incorporating the word into your vocabulary effectively. Remember to consider the context and clarity of your sentence to ensure that defensiveness is used correctly.

Conclusion

In various situations where defensiveness manifested, such as during conflicts, criticism, or feedback, individuals often displayed guarded responses aimed at protecting themselves from perceived threats or attacks. These responses included denying responsibility, shifting blame, or justifying their actions to shield themselves from feeling vulnerable or criticized. Defensiveness can hinder effective communication and problem-solving by creating barriers that prevent honest and open dialogues.

To overcome defensiveness, individuals can cultivate self-awareness, practice active listening, and learn to separate their emotions from the feedback or criticism they receive. By fostering a more reflective and empathetic attitude, individuals can engage in more constructive conversations that focus on understanding different perspectives and finding solutions together. Breaking down barriers of defensiveness can lead to healthier relationships, improved communication, and more effective conflict resolution.