Passive-aggressive behavior is the inability or sometimes plain refusal to openly communicate feelings within a relationship, be it at work or at home. Subtly expressing negative feelings through sulking, backhanded compliments, procrastination, and withdrawal causes confusion, hurt, and anxiety in those on the receiving end. Almost everyone has fallen into the trap of trying to express unhappiness or sadness in a passive manner to avoid open conflict; inevitably, conflict arises regardless because true feelings must be processed for relationships to grow and thrive. Identifying passive-aggressive behavior in others can be easy, but taking the time to look inward can be a healthy check-in for fostering strong relationships.