noun
- the quality or state of being defensive; a tendency to protect oneself from criticism or perceived attack
Examples
- His defensiveness made it difficult to have an honest conversation about the problem.
- She responded with defensiveness when her work was questioned.
- The coach noticed the player’s defensiveness during feedback sessions.
- Try to listen without defensiveness when receiving constructive criticism.
- Her defensiveness suggested she felt personally attacked by the comments.
- The meeting became unproductive due to everyone’s defensiveness.