Biography
Dr Marshall B Rosenberg created Nonviolent Communication after witnessing the impact of violence and segregation in his youth. He earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and collaborated with humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers. Rosenberg founded the Center for Nonviolent Communication and spent decades mediating conflicts and teaching globally. He wrote influential books including Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life. The Dr Marshall B Rosenberg book list highlights accessible tools for empathy, needs-based requests, and mutual understanding. His legacy endures in education, justice reform, healthcare, and community healing.
Author Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Original Language | English (3669) |
| Born On | 1934 (2) |
| Genre | communication (1), psychology (5), self-help (21) |
| Category | Relationship (329) |
| Topics | communication (196), compassion (36), conflict resolution (3), empathy (143), peace (46) |
| Audiences | educators (295), leaders (2620), mediators (32), parents (430), therapists (555) |
Popularity Score
Dr Marshall B Rosenberg (1934–2015) was an American clinical psychologist and the founder of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), a practical framework for transforming conflict through empathy, needs-awareness, and compassionate dialogue. He trained mediators, educators, health professionals, and activists in more than 60 countries, applying NVC from classrooms to war zones. His teachings continue to shape communication and restorative practices worldwide. Explore the Dr Marshall B Rosenberg book list to understand how his methods help people resolve disputes, build trust, and foster cooperation in personal and professional settings.
Interview Questions
How did you develop Nonviolent Communication (NVC)?
I began shaping NVC in the 1960s while working on school desegregation and civil rights conflicts. I combined insights from humanistic psychology, especially Carl Rogers’s emphasis on empathy, with practical tools to separate observations from judgments, connect with feelings and needs, and make clear, doable requests.
What role does empathy play in resolving conflict?
Empathy is central. When we listen for what people are feeling and needing, defensiveness drops and collaboration becomes possible. Empathy doesn’t mean agreement; it means understanding the human needs behind words and actions.
Is NVC realistic in high-stakes or violent situations?
Yes. I have used NVC in prisons, war zones, and communities facing severe conflict. By focusing on universal needs and creating safety through presence and respect, even entrenched conflicts can shift toward problem-solving.
How can parents apply NVC at home?
Parents can model empathy, name feelings and needs, and make collaborative requests instead of threats or rewards. This builds trust, intrinsic motivation, and accountability without punishment.
What is the first step to practice NVC daily?
Start with self-empathy. Notice what you’re feeling, identify the needs underneath, and choose a clear request. From there, offer empathic listening to others before expressing your own request.