ABC Defense

(noun)
A linguistic defense mechanism named after the 1992 crime thriller, Glengarry Glen Ross, referencing the sales method, "Always Be Closing." ABC Defense drafts a covert contract between the speaker and the listener to "be nice."
A. Affectation of Anxiety. Appear socially inept or weak to encourage others' sympathy.
B. Be Gentle. Tone police people who sound "too loud" or "too angry."
C. Covert Contract of Expectation. Assume, out loud, that the other person won't be "cruel."

In the 1965 film "Three Approaches to Psychotherapy," Gloria uses the ABC Defense when she says, "A) Right now I'm nervous but B) I feel more comfortable the way you're talking in a low voice and C) I don't feel like you'll be so harsh on me."

ABC Defense by saintsundere October 13, 2024