Aggressive/Defensive Styles

Number

Name and Description

7

Oppositional Reflects a need for security that manifests itself in a questioning, critical, and even cynical manner. Though people high in this style ask tough questions that can lead to better ideas, they might also emphasize even minor flaws, use criticism to gain attention, and blame others for their own mistakes.

8

Power Reflects needs for prestige and influence, and the tendency to equate self-worth with controlling others. People with strong tendencies toward this style dictate (rather than guide) others’ actions, try to run everything themselves, and treat others in aggressive and forceful ways.

9

Competitive Based on a need to protect one’s status by comparing one’s self to others, outperforming them, and never appearing to lose. People high in this style seek recognition and praise from others, view even non-competitive situ-ations as contests or challenges to “prove” themselves, and try to maintain a sense of superiority.

10

Perfectionistic Based on the need to attain flawless results, avoid failure, and the tendency to equate self-worth with the attainment of unreasonably high standards. People high in this style are preoccupied with details, place excessive demands on themselves and others, and tend to show impatience, frustration, and indifference toward others’ needs and feelings.