ASSERTIVENESS
A skill through which one can express ones rights and feelings without hurting others to the extent possible
PASSIVE
Ignores ones own rights and feelings Respects others rights and feelings
AGGRESSIVE
Respects only ones own rights and feelings Ignores others rights and feelings
ASSERTIVE
Respects ones own rights and feelings Respects others rights and feelings also
PASSIVE BEHAVIOUR
Giving in to others requests and putting pressure on oneself Saying `Yes when one wants to say `No
Feeling inadequate and being manipulated
WHY PEOPLE ARE PASSIVE
Sorry! next time I will take care
Fear of disapproval
Fear of criticism Out of politeness To avoid conflicts Unskilled in being assertive
WHAT HAPPENS IF ONE IS PASSIVE?
Loss of confidence and feeling of low worth Gets hurt and does not use ones full potential Feels angry and frustrated Loses control in relationships Allows others to manipulate Feels miserable and doesnt know why Never fulfills ones own legitimate needs
AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOUR
Forcing others to do what you want and ignoring their feelings Saying No in a hostile and sarcastic manner
WHY PEOPLE ARE AGGRESSIVE
Lack of confidence Success in the past with aggression
To demonstrate power
To release anger To manipulate others
WHAT HAPPENS IF ONE IS AGGRESSIVE?
Conflicts and break up of relationships Labelled pushy and domineering
Loses respect of others
Increased stress and possible violence Cannot achieve results
ASSERTIVE BEHAVIOUR
JUST SAY NO, TO DRUGS
Feeling comfortable in expressing ones needs and feelings Being able to say `No without affecting the relationship
WHY PEOPLE ARE ASSERTIVE
Feel confident about themselves Have respect for others hence avoid hurting others Feel in control of situations Honest to self and others
WHAT HAPPENS IF ONE IS ASSERTIVE?
Able to get things done without problems Gains self respect
Reduces fear in interpersonal relationships and strengthens them
Avoids exploitation and manipulation and always in control
YOUR RIGHTS
You have the right to do anything, as long as it does not hurt others maintain your dignity, if you feel you are being manipulated
make a request to the other person and realize that the other person has the right to say `No
Effective assertive statements
Start the statement with No Use clear and crisp language Avoid long winded explanations Dont blame or use others to explain your stand Dont expect the other to accept your explanation or decision Dont sound apologetic
Non verbal cues for assertiveness
Look at other in his eye Speak in a clear firm voice Stand / sit up erect Use natural gestures
Importance of assertiveness for clients in recovery
Handle peer pressure and safeguard sobriety Live by his values Exercise his rights and implement his decisions Build and safeguard his self-esteem Maintain good relationships
Importance of assertiveness for counselors
Handle clients with firmness even while being empathetic Set limits and implement rules appropriately Function in line with our professional ethics Safeguard team spirit Function as role models by exercising our rights and living by our values without unduly hurting others