Week 14: The Dark Side of Interpersonal Communication
Pattern Recognition Exercise
Instructions
This activity helps you develop skills for recognizing harmful communication patterns. Work through each prompt thoughtfully. Note: If this content brings up personal experiences that feel difficult, please reach out to campus counseling or another support resource. Taking care of yourself is most important.
1Practice Prompt
Read the following scenario and identify what manipulation tactics are being used: 'When Jamie expressed concern about spending habits, their partner responded: "I can't believe you're accusing me of this after everything I've done for you. You're being paranoid, just like your mother. No one else would put up with you - you should be grateful I'm here."' What tactics do you recognize?
Look for guilt-tripping, gaslighting, comparison to others, and threats (implicit or explicit).
2Practice Prompt
Think about the difference between healthy and unhealthy jealousy. Create two brief scenarios: one showing healthy jealousy being expressed and addressed, and one showing toxic jealousy. What distinguishes them?
Consider the behaviors, communication patterns, and outcomes in each scenario.
3Practice Prompt
Consider the gaslighting phrases from the reading ('That never happened,' 'You're too sensitive,' etc.). Why might these phrases be effective at making someone doubt themselves? What makes them difficult to recognize in the moment?
Think about how these phrases undermine confidence and why context matters.
4Practice Prompt
Imagine a friend describes a relationship that contains some red flags you've learned about. What would you say to them? How would you express concern without making them defensive? What resources might you share?
Focus on supportive, non-judgmental language. Remember that leaving harmful situations can be complicated.