Which statement best describes destructive feedback?

• A. feedback that is judgmental and directed toward personal qualities rather than performance.
• B. feedback that focuses on specific performance outcomes.
• C. feedback given with actionable steps.
• D. feedback that is scheduled in formal reviews.

Answer: (A)

Destructive feedback targets the person rather than the performance. It is judgmental and focuses on personal qualities instead of observable behavior or outcomes, which can undermine motivation, erode trust, and lack guidance for improvement. In contrast, constructive feedback examines specific results or behaviors and often includes actionable steps to improve. That’s why describing destructive feedback as judgmental and directed toward personal qualities best captures its harmful nature.