needslanguage

Needs language refers to a style of communication that focuses on expressing personal needs and feelings. It is a concept often associated with the work of Marshall Rosenberg and his Nonviolent Communication (NVC) framework. The core idea is to articulate what one requires in a way that is clear, honest, and fosters understanding rather than blame or criticism.

Instead of stating what someone else is doing wrong or how they are making you feel negatively, needs language emphasizes identifying the underlying human needs that are not being met. For example, instead of saying "You never listen to me," a person using needs language might say "I need to feel heard and understood." This shifts the focus from the other person's behavior to the speaker's internal experience and their universal human needs, such as connection, respect, or autonomy.

This approach aims to make requests more actionable and less likely to provoke defensiveness. By clearly stating one's needs, it becomes easier for others to understand the speaker's perspective and potentially contribute to meeting those needs. It encourages empathy and collaboration by highlighting shared human experiences rather than perceived differences or conflicts. The practice of needs language is a key component in developing more compassionate and effective communication.