Which statement best defines passive-aggressive behavior?

Which statement best defines passive-aggressive behavior?

• A. A pattern of indirectly expressing negative feelings instead of openly addressing them.
• B. Directly stating opposition.
• C. A form of physical aggression.
• D. Expressing feelings openly.

Answer: (A)

Passive-aggressive behavior is when negative feelings are shown indirectly rather than being spoken about openly. This shows up as things like sarcasm, procrastination, sulking, or other subtle ways of showing resistance instead of directly addressing the issue. In a healthcare setting, this indirect style can erode teamwork and patient safety because concerns aren’t voiced clearly and problems don’t get resolved. That best definition fits because it emphasizes the indirect expression of negative feelings rather than direct opposition, physical aggression, or openly sharing feelings. Direct opposition is a clear, upfront stance; physical aggression involves harming others; expressing feelings openly is the opposite of passive-aggressive behavior.

Passive-aggressive behavior is when negative feelings are shown indirectly rather than being spoken about openly. This shows up as things like sarcasm, procrastination, sulking, or other subtle ways of showing resistance instead of directly addressing the issue. In a healthcare setting, this indirect style can erode teamwork and patient safety because concerns aren’t voiced clearly and problems don’t get resolved.

That best definition fits because it emphasizes the indirect expression of negative feelings rather than direct opposition, physical aggression, or openly sharing feelings. Direct opposition is a clear, upfront stance; physical aggression involves harming others; expressing feelings openly is the opposite of passive-aggressive behavior.