You have just practiced descriptive communication to modify some problematic behavior. Your subordinate replies, "I have an excuse $...$ it is not my fault." What should you do$?$

Describe some specific behaviors that might remedy the problem.

Keep trying to describe the problematic behavior until the subordinate understands.

Refocus the communication away from blame or fault toward counseling.

Point out $($without causing defensiveness$)$ to your subordinate that it really doesn't matter if it is his$/$her fault; the problem still exists.