The two best choices to encourage civil discourse with someone who is responding defensively are:
- Ask thoughtful questions about their point of view.
- Find a point of agreement between you.
Why these choices?
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Ask thoughtful questions about their point of view: This approach demonstrates genuine interest in understanding their perspective, which can help de-escalate defensiveness. It encourages them to elaborate on their thoughts, promoting a more open and constructive dialogue.
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Find a point of agreement between you: Identifying common ground can create a sense of connection and shared understanding. This helps to reduce defensiveness, as both individuals can build on mutual interests rather than focusing solely on their differences.
Together, these strategies foster a more positive and collaborative conversation, making it easier to navigate disagreements.