NON-VIOLENT COMMUNICATION (NVC) BY ROSENBERG   

Consistent with systemic thinking and humanistic values, non-violent communication in the tradition of Marshall Rosenberg is based on empathy and self-empathy, respect, openness and equality. In that sense, it goes far beyond the level of verbal communication and rather constitutes an inner attitude. This way of being in contact with ourselves and others helps us to separate mere observations from value judgements, and directs our attention to feelings, needs and wishes. It reminds us of our self-responsibility for our thoughts, feelings and actions and enables us to remain positive and constructive also in situations of conflict and disagreement. It highlights the often unnoticed aspects and undertones of violence in our common usage of language and opens up ways of dealing with power in social systems of all kinds, beyond hierarchical thinking and dominance.

Non-violent communication gives us new ideas for our interpersonal relationships but also for the relationship to ourselves. Social conditioning, collective trauma, abusive rearing practices based on obedience and duty or adopted beliefs about ourselves and life often lead to negative judgments or automatized behaviours. They may let us forget our own values and wishes and let us seek the responsibility for our feelings or the situations we are in in the outer. Non-violent communication invites us to reconnect with our true selves and to regain our authenticity and freedom. In its core assumptions, it therefore forms a valuable approach also within coaching and therapy.