
Assertiveness : 'The ability to communicate our thoughts, feelings and ideas, both positive and negative, in an open and honest way which does not abuse our rights or the rights of others
- Passive Behaviour
- The non-assertive person:
- Is reluctant to express own opinions, and particularly, feelings
- Often feels used by others
- Keeps quiet when others take advantage
- Refrains from complaining when services or products are not up to standard
- Finds it difficult to refuse the requests of others for time or resources
- Acquiesces in the views and desires of the majority even though these conflict with personal wishes
- Frequently makes compromises in the interests of harmony
- Is unwilling to inconvenience people for the things he or she wants
- Is submissive in the presence of aggressive behaviour
- Prefers to keep own views private
2. Aggressive Behaviour
- The aggressive person:
- Frequently argues with others
- Frequently gets angry and thinks that others need to be put in their place
- Has no difficulty in complaining when receiving poor quality products or services
- Usually gets own way in situations
- Expects others to accommodate own time schedules
- Has strong views on many subjects and has no difficulty in expressing them
- Easily and frequently finds fault with others
- Continually works to personal agendas at the expense of others
- Rarely feels aware of the needs or feelings of others
- Competes with others and is angry if not successful
3. Assertive Behaviour
The assertive person:
- Is able to express desires and feelings to others
- Is able to converse and work well with people at all levels
- Is able to appreciate the views of others and accept any that appear more reasonable than their own
- Is able to disagree with someone yet retain their friendship and respect
- Is aware of the needs and desires of others
- Is able to make concessions to others without feelings of inadequacy
- Is able to express a concern or a need with minimum embarrassment to both parties
- Is able to control feelings and emotions even in difficult or emotionally charged situations
- Is able to refuse a request without feeling guilty or obliged
- Is able to ask for what he or she wants and can insist on legal entitlements without becoming emotional