Which of the following strategies can reduce defensiveness in communication?

The strategy of asking for clarification through perception checking is effective in reducing defensiveness in communication because it fosters an environment of understanding and empathy. This technique involves reflecting back what the other person has stated and asking questions to clarify meanings, which can demonstrate that you are actively listening and valuing their perspective. By doing so, it encourages open dialogue rather than conflict, allowing both parties to feel heard and respected.

In contrast, adopting an aggressive tone and posture creates a hostile environment that can increase defensiveness, leading to conflict rather than resolution. Ignoring the other person's viewpoint dismisses their feelings and contributes to a breakdown in communication. Similarly, making assumptions about intentions can lead to misunderstandings and escalate defensiveness, as it fails to consider the other person’s perspective, reinforcing barriers to effective communication. Therefore, perception checking is a vital strategy that promotes clarity and reduces misunderstandings, leading to more constructive interactions.