Marshall Rosenberg

Marshall Rosenberg was an influential peacemaker and psychotherapist best known for developing Nonviolent Communication (NVC), a powerful conflict resolution approach. He wrote the book Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life and other works that analyze and explain the principles of the NVC method. Throughout his career, Rosenberg advocated for compassionate communication as a way to create peace in the world and foster healthy relationships.

Marshall Rosenberg was born in 1934 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He earned his degrees in psychology and philosophy at the University of Wisconsin and then continued on to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the Wright Institute in California. He founded the Humanistic Psychology Institute in San Francisco in 1974 and started teaching workshops on NVC that same year.

Rosenberg's approach to communication builds on the principles of respect, compassion, understanding, and mutual acceptance. The core NVC approaches include four components: expressing oneself authentically, receiving the same from others, being mindful of the needs of all parties, and working for outcomes that are mutual beneficial. In essence, individuals are encouraged to focus on feelings, needs, and requests as opposed to criticism, judgments, and blame.

NVC emphasizes the use of language which is honest, direct, and non-judgmental. It does not engage in accusatory language or defensive posturing. Instead, it seeks out shared interests and needs, and applies compassionate give-and-take. Rosenberg believed that it was also important to remain open and accepting of others, even if one disagreed with them.

Rosenberg's writings on NVC have had a major impact throughout the world. His book, Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, has been published in 22 languages and served as the cornerstone of his life's work. In it, he outlines the basic process and concepts of the NVC, and explains how it can help individuals and groups improve their relationships and transform their lives.

In addition to his successful book and his teaching, Marshall Rosenberg made a significant impact in the field of conflict resolution. He was involved in peace-building initiatives in the Middle East, Africa and Asia and provided training to many groups and organizations around the world. He worked with teachers and student groups in particular, helping them to develop more effective ways of communicating with each other.

Marshall Rosenberg's contribution to the field of nonviolence and conflict resolution has been enormous. The principles of NVC are now used by business, education, and health care professionals, as well as individuals in their own personal communication. Through his writings, Rosenberg has provided a simple yet powerful means of understanding and practicing communication that avoids hurt feelings, discord, and unnecessary conflict. The legacy he left behind will continue to inspire and guide those looking for new and better ways of communicating.