Exposure to any form of aggression can bring about negative consequences. It can significantly damage a person's self-esteem and can often lead to the destruction of relationships. Aggression, whether it's in the form of behavior or communication, can have numerous adverse effects on individuals.
Here are some of the most prevalent ways that aggression can negatively influence a person.
Erodes Trust
Trust is a fundamental aspect of any relationship, whether it's familial, platonic, or romantic. A healthy relationship requires trust. Aggression invites conflict, strains relationships, and results in a loss of trust. When people experience too much discomfort and pain, they often erect defenses to shield themselves from further harm inflicted by the aggressive individual.
Obstructs Open Communication
Aggressive communication is far from being healthy. It instigates fear and shame, causing the individual on the receiving end to brace themselves for impending conflict and protect themselves by any means necessary.
They may decide to remain silent, hide their valuable possessions, and steer clear of the aggressive person altogether. These actions are all attempts to evade any aggressive behavior directed towards them. Over time, this can lead to a communication breakdown, making honest and open conversations virtually impossible.
Replaces Feelings of Safety with Fear
Aggression is incapable of fostering a sense of safety. Instead, it instills fear, trauma, and feelings of apprehension.
Ironically, aggressive individuals are often filled with fear themselves. When they project aggression onto others, they are essentially transferring their fears. This act of transference is akin to an energy exchange. Recognizing and releasing aggressive behavior is critical.
Aggression breeds feelings of uncertainty, fear, and overall negative energy within the relationship. A relationship marked by negativity can never bring joy or happiness. Aggression is a destructive attempt to gain power and control. It never results in any positive outcome in a relationship.
Increases Stress Levels
A relationship characterized by aggression can be highly stressful. Aggressive behavior triggers the fight-or-flight stress response as a defensive mechanism. If our safety is compromised, our instincts alert us to defend ourselves. Constantly being exposed to aggression can be extremely detrimental and stressful.
Anyone in such a relationship, where they feel perpetually threatened, should extricate themselves from the situation. It is neither safe nor healthy. Such relationships are essentially abusive.
Undermines Self-Confidence
Continuous exposure to aggressive behavior can gradually chip away at a person's self-esteem and confidence. Constant belittlement or feeling a lack of control does not contribute positively to anyone's sense of worth. Bullies and narcissists, known for their aggressive behaviors, can be physically or verbally abusive. They significantly damage their victim's self-confidence.
In Concluding
Ideally, every individual should aim to communicate respectfully irrespective of the situation. This would allow everyone the liberty to express themselves as they wish.
A person can be candid yet respectful. They can be honest and tactful, ensuring they don't hurt others' feelings and thus demonstrating consideration. These are the traits of an assertive person and are worth developing. They reflect self-confidence and emotional maturity.
Aggression stems from fear and insecurity. No one should endure any form of aggressive behavior. If there's an opportunity to escape such a dynamic, it's better to either terminate or restructure the relationship with the aggressor before their behavior starts affecting your physical or emotional health.
