Critics can sometimes be ruthless in passing unfavorable judgment on the qualities, character or work of a person. Many times they are insensitive to the demoralizing effects of their words on the person criticized. When Aristotle first used the word ‘criticism’ he meant it to be a standard of judgment and not a fault-finding exercise.

Criticism can be constructive or destructive. The aim of constructive criticism is to see a change for the better in the person criticized. The reasons will be clearly stated as well as suggestions offered to rectify the problem. Many times, a friend or a relative is requested to honestly criticize a person’s appearance or behaviour. In such cases, one must be ready to accept the view of the other person, in the right spirit. The absence of criticism may not always be a sign of friendship. It could be just a lack of concern for the other person.