Communication and Learning

Theodore A. Avtgis

11Instructor Use of Aggressive Communication

Abstract: This chapter comprises a comprehensive overview of aggressive communication in the instructional setting. It presents the theoretical underpinnings of aggressive communication theory and the distinctions of constructive and destructive forms of aggressive communication as supported by empirical research findings. Assessment of argumentativeness and verbal aggressiveness are discussed, along with psychometric challenges to the assessment of these two constructs that comprise aggressive communication. The chapter reviews training efforts to curtail the ubiquitous nature of destructive forms of aggressive communication, and it addresses related concepts such as bullying on ...