Gentle Art of Verbal Self-Defense

In this book, psycholinguist Suzette Elgin shows you how to recognize different attack modes (from "polite" put-downs to guilt-inducing reproaches) and how to deflect verbal blows with a few carefully chosen words that compromise neither your dignity nor your honor. Filled with examples and alternative scripts, this book reveals shrewd, nonviolent techniques that will save you years of sparring with bullying bosses, backbiting coworkers, guilt-producing mothers, condescending spouses, or child tyrants!.