NVC in a Nutshell
Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a process of communication, developed by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg that is based on compassion, authenticity, and courage. Also sometimes known as Compassionate Communication.
It supports:
- Interactions we have with others in clearly, honestly and compassionately expressing ourselves and also in deeply listening to another.
- The ‘inner chatter’ or dialogues we have in ourselves by bringing an attitude of self-compassion and kindness.
- NVC focuses our attention on needs – on the universal longings, values and yearnings that each and every one of us as human beings share – needs such as honesty, peace, care, support, to contribute, to be included – (to name but a few).
By keeping a focus on these needs that we all share, a greater possibility for understanding and compassion occurs.
NVC also focuses on feelings
Believing that all feelings arise from needs. If our needs are met then we experience pleasant feelings. If our needs remain unmet them we experience unpleasant feelings. (i.e. if I experience care from others I may feel relaxed, content, happy. If I don’t experience care then I may feel anxious or hurt or sad or annoyed).
How did NVC come about?
Marshall Rosenberg began developing his model of Nonviolent Communication more than forty years ago in the US, in response to the physical, emotional and spiritual violence he witnessed in society. Marshall first visited the UK in 1993, many were inspired by his teachings. Since then, trainers and sharers have developed a variety of approaches for making NVC accessible to others, of these, two are more common: An agreed curriculum is presented as an ‘NVC Foundation Course’, with subsequent courses offering increased depth, breadth and complexity, some targeted at particular issues.
NVC is used in workplaces and communities, it supports people in relating cooperatively, in making decisions together and working collaboratively. It can be incredibly effective in bringing about a shift in situations characterised by conflict.
Ways to learn NVC
Recommended reading ‘Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life’ by Marshall Rosenberg
You can learn NVC online – through e-course, teleclass and video clips. Attend an introduction, one or two-day event or foundation training.
Find a course or event to meet your learning needs.
Take two minutes to hear from some NVC enthusiasts…
“All that has been integrated into NVC has been known for centuries about consciousness, language, communication skills, and use of power that enable us to maintain a perspective of empathy for ourselves and others, even under trying conditions.“ Marshall B. Rosenberg