Learning objectives :

• Understanding the Benefits of Nonviolent Communication for Fostering Assertive and Compassionate Communication
• Using the OSBD method in everyday interpersonal communication
• Practice addressing complex issues and tensions without blaming others and while staying focused on your own needs
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Course :

Session 1: Observing Without Judging
It all starts with a simple observation: what we think is an observation is often a judgment in disguise. NVC begins by learning to describe concrete, factual behavior without interpreting it. Participants learn the OSBD method (Observation: describing concrete behavior without judging / Feeling: the emotion it triggers in me / Need: the source of the feeling, not an expectation of the other person / Request: a concrete and reasonable request), then practice the O component.

Example scenario : Rephrase judgments or interpretations as factual observations, moving from accusatory statements like “You’re not listening to me” to a precise, non-judgmental description of the behavior that caused the tension.

Session 2: Identifying and Expressing Feelings and Needs
Second common pitfall: expressing a feeling that accuses the other person rather than an authentic feeling. "I feel abandoned" or "I feel like you don't care" actually attribute an intention to the other person. Participants learn to distinguish between accusatory feelings and genuine feelings, and then to identify the underlying need, taking care not to confuse it with an action expected of the other person.

Case example : Exercises in identifying and expressing feelings and needs in interpersonal communication situations, by rephrasing messages that place blame on the other person into messages focused on one’s own feelings.

Session 3: Providing Complex Feedback Using OSBD
Once participants have mastered the components, they apply OSBD in real-life situations to address emotionally charged interpersonal issues: recurring behavior that hinders collaboration, a lack of recognition, or unspoken tension. The goal is to make the message clear, honest, and non-aggressive, using the method’s full framework.

Case Study : Whole-group and small-group exercises to practice using OSBD to describe complex real-life interpersonal situations experienced by participants, shifting from a spontaneous, often accusatory message to one focused on facts, feelings, and needs.