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Aggressive/Defensive Styles

Aggressive/Defensive circumplex stylesEmphasise tasks over people and is driven by underlying insecurities. In the extreme, these styles lead people to focus on their own needs at the expense of those of the group. Though sometimes temporarily effective, Aggressive/Defensive styles may lead to stress, decisions based on status rather than expertise and conflict rather than collaboration.

7 O'clock Oppositional

Reflects a need for security that manifests itself in a questioning, critical and even cynical manner. Though people high in this style ask tough questions that can lead to better ideas, they might also emphasise even minor flaws, use criticism to gain attention and blame others for their own mistakes.

8 O'clock Power

Reflects needs for prestige and influence, and the tendency to equate self-worth with controlling others. People with strong tendencies toward this style dictate (rather than guide) others' actions, try to run everything themselves and treat others in aggressive and forceful ways.

9 O'clock Competitive

Based on a need to protect one's status by comparing one's self to others, outperforming them and never appearing to lose. People high in this style seek recognition and praise from others, view even non-competitive situations as contests or challenges to "prove" themselves and try to maintain a sense of superiority.

10 O'clock Perfectionistic

Based on the need to attain flawless results, avoid failure and the tendency to equate self-worth with the attainment of unreasonably high standards. People high in this style are preoccupied with details, place excessive demands on themselves and others and tend to show impatience, frustration and indifference toward others' needs and feelings.


 

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Related Articles

  1. More about the constructive styles (blue) and passive/defensive styles (green)
  2. An overview of the Circumplex and the Integrated Development System
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Individual/Leader Development

Measuring and developing individual styles, competencies and leadership performance.

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Team Development

Measuring and developing team performance.

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Organisational Development

Measuring and developing organisational culture and effectiveness in terms of structures, systems, technologies and skills/qualities.

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