Assertiveness in Communication

Paper Summary:

Assertiveness is an important communication skill that involves standing up for one's rights while respecting the rights of others. It enables us to express our feelings, opinions, beliefs and needs directly, openly and honestly. It also gives us confidence, increases our self-esteem and enhances our self-control in everyday situations. As a result, assertiveness improves our decision-making ability and increases our chances of getting what we really want from our lives. This paper explores various aspects of assertiveness including the difference between non-assertive (passive), aggressive and assertive behavior, describes different types of assertion, and discusses the gender and cultural differences in assertive communication.

Outline:
Abstract
The Difference Between Assertive, Aggressive, and Passive Behavior
Types of Assertion
Gender and Culture Differences in Assertive Communication
Conclusion
Works Cited

From the Paper:

"Apart from the gender, a person's cultural background also influences the way in which he or she uses assertive language. In "collectivist" cultures such as that of Asian countries such as China, Japan or Korea, for example, individual rights are often considered to be subordinate to those of the group and values of humility, tolerance or subservience are considered as virtues; hence "assertive" behavior may not even be appropriate or desired in such cultures. In some cultures, it is particularly important to show respect and obedience to elders and parents; show of asserive behavior in front of elders would be considered to be particularly distasteful. On the other hand in countries where individualism is prized, assertiveness and standing up for one's rights are considered to be desirable behaviors."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "Assertiveness." Counseling Center, University of Illinois. n.d. April 2, 2006. <http://www.couns.uiuc.edu/Brochures/assertiv.htm>
• "Assertiveness Skills." Brain Injury Resource Center. October, 1998. April 2, 2006 <http://www.headinjury.com/assertskills.html>
• "Assertiveness Training." Michigan Tech: Counselling Services. August 27, 2002. April 2, 2006 <http://www.counseling.mtu.edu/Assertiveness.htm>
• Bozzi, Vincent. "Assertiveness Breeds Contempt." Psychology Today Sept. 1987: 15.
• Hargie, Owen, and David Dickson. Skilled Interpersonal Communication: Research, Theory, and Practice. London: Routledge, 2003.

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