Rseaerch Insights: Why We Avoid Difficult Conversations

Understanding the drivers of action, or silence
 
Many people don’t avoid difficult conversations because they can’t,  but because they don’t feel safe or ready enough to engage.
 
This free infographic draws on my doctoral research at the University of Hertfordshire, using the COM-B behavioural model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation) to explore what drives conversational behaviour at work.
 
The findings show that:
Capability (skills and emotional regulation) and Opportunity (supportive structures, safe spaces) matter…
…but Motivation is often the tipping point. Even skilled employees in safe environments may stay silent if they fear negative consequences or believe “nothing will change.”
 
This resource highlights the emotional, relational, and structural risks that fuel avoidance, and offers practical strategies for building motivation through enablement, reflection, and psychological safety.
 
It’s designed to help leaders, managers, and HR professionals move beyond “just teaching communication skills,” and instead create the conditions where people feel both able and willing to speak up.
 
Download the infographic to explore how to shift from silence to constructive dialogue in your workplace.