Defensiveness

Definition

Defensiveness refers to a psychological reaction where an individual protects themselves from perceived threats, criticisms, or challenges. This behavior can manifest in various forms, such as denial, rationalization, or aggression, often hindering effective communication and understanding. In challenging situations, defensiveness can lead to barriers that prevent open dialogue and the resolution of conflicts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Defensiveness often arises during interviews when subjects feel vulnerable or threatened by the questions being asked.
2. It can manifest as evasiveness or hostility, making it challenging for journalists to obtain honest and insightful responses.
3. Recognizing defensiveness in subjects is essential for interviewers to adjust their approach and facilitate more open communication.
4. Building rapport and trust with interviewees can significantly reduce defensiveness and encourage more candid discussions.
5. Effective questioning techniques, such as open-ended questions, can help minimize defensiveness by allowing subjects to express themselves without feeling attacked.

Review Questions

• How can defensiveness affect the outcomes of interviews with difficult subjects?
  • Defensiveness can severely impact interviews by causing subjects to withhold information or respond in ways that are not genuine. When an interviewee feels defensive, they may become evasive or confrontational, which complicates the interviewer's ability to gather meaningful insights. To counter this effect, interviewers should strive to create a comfortable environment that encourages openness and trust.
• What strategies can journalists employ to manage defensiveness in their interview subjects effectively?
  • Journalists can manage defensiveness by employing strategies such as establishing rapport with the interviewee, using empathetic listening, and asking open-ended questions. These approaches help create a more relaxed atmosphere where subjects feel less threatened. Additionally, it's important for journalists to be aware of their own body language and tone to ensure they are not inadvertently escalating defensiveness.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of a journalist's ability to handle defensiveness during interviews on their career success and reputation.
  • A journalist's skill in handling defensiveness during interviews can greatly influence their long-term career success and reputation. When journalists can navigate difficult conversations effectively, they are more likely to gain access to exclusive stories and foster positive relationships with sources. This not only enhances the quality of their reporting but also builds a reputation for professionalism and trustworthiness, making them more sought after in the field.

Related terms

Rationalization: A defense mechanism where individuals justify their actions or feelings with logical explanations to avoid facing uncomfortable truths.

Conflict Resolution: The process of resolving a disagreement or dispute by addressing the underlying issues and finding mutually acceptable solutions.

Emotional Intelligence:

The ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions as well as the emotions of others, which can play a crucial role in reducing defensiveness.