Final answer:
The opposite of productive communication in the context of negative affect can be 'displacement' or 'reaction formation,' where inappropriate feelings or actions are redirected or switched for their opposites. Both hinder open and genuine communication and are not conducive to resolution and understanding.
Step-by-step explanation:
The opposite or unproductive communication of negative affect can be characterized as displacement or reaction formation. Displacement involves transferring inappropriate urges or behaviors onto a more acceptable or less threatening target, which can lead to misunderstanding and conflict. Reaction formation, on the other hand, is an ego defense mechanism in which a person confronted with anxiety swaps unacceptable urges or behaviors for their opposites, which also hinders genuine communication and resolution.
For productive communication, it's important to engage in bridge-building conversations that repair wounded feelings and lead to greater mutual understanding. Instead of reacting negatively, one should carefully select their words and questions to turn an emotional situation into an opportunity for learning and growth. For example, rephrasing a question more positively can help in understanding the motivations behind someone's actions in a conflict situation.