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Definition Basics: What is Non-Violent Resistance (NVR)?

Standing Strong, Standing Together: Why Non-Violent Resistance is the Ultimate Act of Courage:

Sometimes when we hear the term "non-violent resistance," we might think it means being passive, or simply giving in. This couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, a non-violent approach is one of the bravest and most powerful things you can do.

This idea comes from Professor Haim Omer, who created Non-Violent Resistance (NVR) as a way for parents to handle tough family challenges. NVR is not about being passive; it's about being actively, confidently, and courageously present in your family's life. It takes incredible strength to stand your ground without using force or aggression.

Here's why NVR is a truly courageous approach:

The Courage to Resist Reacting

When a conflict starts, it's easy to get caught up in a cycle of arguing or shouting. Our natural reaction is to fight back. The courage of NVR is in hitting pause. It’s the strength to take a deep breath and choose a different path, even when your emotions are running high. It’s about breaking a negative pattern.

The Courage to Be Present

NVR doesn't mean you ignore problems. Instead, it's about having a strong presence and sending a clear message: "I will not give up on you, but I will not accept this behavior." This means you calmly and consistently stand by your boundaries, refusing to be pulled into a fight. That takes a quiet, unwavering strength.

The Courage to Reconnect

While traditional discipline can push people apart, NVR is all about building bridges. It encourages parents to create a strong support network and make small, kind gestures to rebuild trust and connection. It takes courage to be the first one to reach out and rebuild a relationship, especially when things are difficult.

The Courage to Seek Support

Finally, one of the bravest parts of NVR is admitting that you need help. It’s about reaching out to friends, family, or professionals to build a network of support. This act of vulnerability shows that you understand you don't have to face overwhelming challenges on your own, and that there is immense power in working together.

A courageous response:

  • The Courage to Resist Reacting

  • The Courage to Be Present

  • The Courage to Reconnect

  • The Courage to Seek Support

    It's clear that NVR is not about weakness, but about a deep, unwavering kind of strength. It’s a brave path that allows you to address conflict and connect with your loved ones in a way that builds everyone up, rather than tearing them down.

    If you are a parent feeling isolated or at your wit's end with challenging family dynamics, a therapist trained in NVR can provide invaluable support. Why not consider a conversation with a therapeutic professional to learn more, or look at one of the courses on this site?

Let us know what you think in the comments!

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V.G.

About Verity Green

Based in Catterick Garrison, Richmond, Bedale, North Yorkshire and Online. Therapy and training with trauma, long term conditions and disability, adoption, care leavers, managing high conflict environments in the home, recovering from high control, and managing change from intense environments (such as sport, Armed Forces Community).

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