There are comments that may offend or hurt. And some can impact those who hear them for a very long time.
It is not always easy to address everyone, all the time, with sensitivity and empathy. Sometimes our words go further than our thoughts, fatigue prevents us from being lucid and we say hurtful sentences. The most important thing in these cases – all psychology experts will tell you – is to realize it and, as far as possible, apologize to the people you have offended, even if It’s about children.
There are also comments and sentences that are not really the result of clumsiness. Some words are actually considered toxic by psychologists and academics who have made the study of human behavior their profession. Specialist Gina Barreca, from the University of Connecticut, has listed in Psychology Today the 10 “worst phrases” that can be introduced into a conversation.
These are comments that are regularly made, according to her, by “experts in manipulation”, or “narcissists”. They generally cause anxiety and can quickly lead to a hurtful situation. If the first can be considered the worst, it depends on the sensitivity of each person, one of them should in any case remind you of a confusing situation:
It is essential to become aware of these “conversational tactics” so as not to let yourself be manipulated. What to do when you hear these phrases? You can express your discomfort and ask to get to the point. For example, saying, “You’re making me nervous. Can we get to the point right away?” This is an honest, direct approach that reduces the drama of the conversation.
Don’t let these toxic phrases impact you. Learn to recognize the intentions behind words. Take back control of your conversations, and remember: honesty doesn’t have to hurt.
