Non-violent communication refers to a method that aims to establish relationships between people based on empathy, kindness, cooperation, respect for oneself and others. This tool is often used in conflict situations in companies, within families, couples, etc. Non-violent communication is also a good tool for relating in a caring way with the elderly.
Non-violent communication (NVC) is an approach that aims to facilitate relationships by helping "to reconnect with a quality of listening to oneself and to the other, and to rediscover the benevolence and empathy that we naturally carry within us, based on the fundamental vision that all human beings have the same needs", according to the French Association of Certified Trainers in Nonviolent Communication (AFFCNV).
NVC is an oral communication tool that allows you to express yourself clearly while being open to others. More specifically, nonviolent communication is mainly used in situations of conflicting or tense relationships, but not only.
This communication approach promotes cooperation with the aim of resolving conflicts and remaining constructive in one's relationships. Non-violent communication is based on "the sincerity of the intention and the quality of the dialogue", always as indicated by the AFFCNV.
Nonviolent communication is a concept that was created more than 50 years ago by Marshall B. Rosenberg, an American doctor of clinical psychology, in the context of racial and socioeconomic conflicts in the United States. He was inspired by the work of the American psychologist Carl Rogers, of whom he was a student, and began to develop CNV, which is a registered trademark (Non Violent Communication , in English), mainly in Switzerland in the 1980s. This doctor of psychology was inspired by the thoughts of Gandhi (Indian philosopher and politician) and Krishnamurti, a philosopher and theosophist (doctrine based on the contemplation of the universe and inner enlightenment), also Indian.
More than a communication approach, the NVC has become more broadly today a way of being which highlights its intention to create a quality relationship, which makes it possible to identify with the other in what he feels when communicating with him, and fosters an atmosphere of trust and cooperation in the end. In a nutshell, NVC provides keys to understanding its own functioning.
Nonviolent communication is used in a large number of fields. Family relations, couple, or among young people, in education, through the business world, the social, trade union, political sector, or even the field of health by nurses, caregivers, etc.
In practice, to understand and apply nonviolent communication, it is necessary to go through several stages. It is necessary to start by identifying and observing his way of communicating, either what facilitates his relations with others or on the contrary what can generate conflicts; express their needs and desires in terms of communication and define their priorities; express themselves concisely, clearly, without judgment and demands; in case of conflict, make sure to keep the dialogue open; and show empathy.
Non-violent communication is used in particular in the field of health with the elderly, by caregivers, but it is also useful for their companions, in particular caregivers who work alongside older people with loss of autonomy. , with whom to communicate can be complicated. In these areas, NVC helps to improve doctor/patient relations, to announce difficult diagnoses, or to know how to offer and ask for support.
Communication with the elderly is often made difficult because of their cognitive or physical problems. It requires sensitivity and respect. This is why non-violent communication, based on empathy and benevolence, often proves to be a good tool.
