Disagreements between people are normal. We are multi-dimensional individuals with unique thoughts, perspectives, and experiences.
And while being involved in an argument is not fun, how we handle it can make the difference between eroding or fortifying a relationship.
Using the right words, tone, and having the right attitude can make a world of difference when resolving conflict.
Using neutral arguments to express oneself during a conflict offers many benefits, including reduced defensiveness, more open dialogue, clear communication, improved relationships, and greater opportunities for personal growth.
Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of using neutral arguments during conflict.
What Is A Neutral Argument?
During an argument, emotions can run high, and clashing parties can feel attacked and become defensive.
But avoiding confrontation to protect a relationship does more harm than good. The fear of a disagreement creates a ‘ticking time bomb’ effect that, over time, can no longer be contained.
Arguing with neutrality helps avoid conflict escalation and reduces tension and hostility.
“Neutral arguments are the statements or the points that are made without emotional bias, accusatory language or personal judgment.”
Furthermore, “Neutral arguments mainly focus on the facts, logic and objective reasoning rather than emotional opinions or responses.”
How to Argue with Neutrality
To argue with neutrality, it is vital to avoid using ‘you’ statements as they set the stage for a me-versus-you mentality. The other party may perceive you as offensive, hostile, or unreasonable.
If the other party feels attacked, criticized, or blamed during an argument, they may become disengaged and stop listening and communicating.
Instead of using ‘you’ statements, use ‘I’ messages during arguments. By doing so, you avoid sounding threatening, aggressive, or like you are blaming others.
An ‘I’ statement, also known as an ‘assertiveness statement,’ focuses on your feelings and experiences, not on what the other party has or hasn’t done.
By stating your concerns, feelings, and needs, you are more likely to be heard and understood.
What Are the Benefits of Using Neutral Arguments to Express Oneself While in a Conflict?
Once you practice using neutral arguments during conflict, it will become second nature to you, and you will undoubtedly reap the benefits of arguing with neutrality.
Let’s take a look at the biggest benefits of using neutral arguments.
1. Reduce Defensiveness
When you communicate your concerns, feelings, and needs without accusatory or aggressive language, you enable the other party to let their guard down and be receptive to your issues and opinions.
By not aggravating the situation, you minimize emotional breakdowns and encourage open-minded listening.
2. Encourage Open Dialogue
When people feel free of judgment, criticism, and hostility, they can remain calm enough to articulate thoughts productively.
When you feel that your thoughts and opinions are respected, you allow yourself to be vulnerable enough to have honest conversations.
Neutral language also fosters a collaborative environment.
3. Enable Clear Communication
When you avoid loaded language, judgment, and accusatory statements, you keep emotions from running high.
By keeping everyone’s emotions under control, you can work together to identify the cause of the conflict and work towards a solution.
Additionally, remaining calm and collected allows you to articulate the issue effectively, avoiding misunderstandings and future problems.
4. Improve Relationships
When conflict is handled free of personal bias, judgment, and criticism, relationships can become stronger and closer.
Stating problems clearly, openly, and respectfully can help the parties involved reach mutually agreeable solutions.
It shows that they care enough about the relationship and each other enough to face their fears and difficulties to resolve their issues.
5. Promote Personal Growth
A conflict-free life may seem ideal, but it is not beneficial for your personal growth.
When handled correctly, conflict can enable critical thought and help develop your conflict resolution skills.
Emotions tend to run high when faced with conflict. Remaining calm, especially when feeling attacked, is a true test of your emotional maturity.
Learning to argue with neutrality takes much practice and self-control. It requires you to be conscientious and pause before behaving defensively and lashing out.
However, once mastered, using neutral arguments and exerting control over your emotions can lead to better interpersonal skills, stronger relationships, and improved problem-solving skills.
Conclusion on the Benefits of Using Neutral Arguments to Express Oneself in Conflict
With practice and persistence, using neutral arguments during conflict can become second nature to you and allow you to reap the benefits of mastering neutrality and self-control.
During disagreements, employing neutrality can be the difference between destroying a relationship and making it stronger.
As multi-dimensional individuals, disagreements are inevitable. How they are handled, however, can keep arguments from escalating and allow for safe and open communication.
