Behavioral communication: Individual differences in communication style

Behavioral communication is defined as an individual differences variable entailing indirect expression of feelings, needs, and thoughts as a substitute for more direct and open communication. A Behavioral Communication Questionnaire (BCQ) was developed with an Internet sample (N = 247). High alpha reliabilities were obtained in measuring behavioral communication toward three referents: partner, friend, and coworker. Strong positive intercorrelations among these versions of the BCQ suggested that people report consistency in what and how they communicate regardless of with whom they communicate. Scores for behavioral communication correlated expectably with measures of self-esteem, open communication, life distresses, and alexithymia, and were independent of major demographic variables. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed.