Passive/Defensive Styles

Number

Name and Description

3

Approval Reflects a need to be accepted and a tendency to tie one’s self-worth to being liked by others. People high in this style try very hard to please others, make good impressions, and be agreeable and obedient.

4

Conventional Reflects a preoccupation with conforming and “blending in” with the environment to avoid calling attention to one’s self. People high in this style tend to rely on established routines and procedures, prefer to maintain the status quo, and want a secure and predictable work environment.

5

Dependent Reflects a need for self-protection coupled with the belief that one has little direct or personal control over important events. People high in this style allow others to make decisions for them, depend on others for help, and willingly obey orders—possibly as a result of recent changes in their personal or work lives.

6

Avoidance Reflects apprehension, a strong need for self-protection, and a propensity to withdraw from threatening situations. People high in this style “play it safe” and minimize risks, shy away from group activities and conversations, and react to situations in an indecisive and non-committal way.