Hardhandedness

/ˈhɑrdˌhændədnəs/ noun

Definition

The quality of being harsh, stern, or severe in manner toward others.

Etymology

From 'hardhanded' plus the abstract noun suffix '-ness', creating a noun that describes the character trait or behavioral pattern itself.

Kelly Says

In psychology, hardhandedness is sometimes seen as a coping mechanism—people who act this way may have learned that toughness was the only way to survive in their environment.

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