The importance of assertive communication in school and social functioning of adolescents

Abstract

Assertiveness is a "set of behaviors that a person manifests in an interpersonal context that expresses his/ her feelings, attitudes, desires, opinions or rights in a direct, decisive and honest way, while respecting the feelings, attitudes, desires, opinions, and rights of others." This implies the use of one's own rights without violating the rights of others, meaning expressing of one's feelings without experiencing significant anxiety. Assertiveness contributes to better communication in emotional and professional relationships. These beliefs are adopted since early childhood through the process of socialization. Children who adopt assertive behaviors, better deal with stress, more effectively use their knowledge and abilities. This fosters the development of self-esteem and self-respect in childhood, and later in adolescent and adulthood. Unlike assertive, we define aggressive and passive behavior, which represent two opposite ends on communication continuum. Fear is a common denominator that connects aggressive and submissive people. Assertiveness is a skill that is taught and practiced. Assertive training's around the world are increasingly important because of their multiple benefits. Professional guidance through assertive training can represent an introduction to all important aspects of assertive communication and overcoming fears about social interactions, which contributes to better functioning of adolescents in social interactions and school functioning.