PAGE CONTENTS
(1) A definition of assertiveness
(2) Recommendations for improving assertiveness skills
(3) A brief introduction to assertiveness
(4) Recommended books
(5) Useful online information
(6) Additional resources
(1) Definition of assertiveness
Assertiveness involves stating your feelings and preferences in direct fashion that does not negate, attack, or manipulate anyone else.
(2) Recommendations for improving assertiveness skills
(A) Read my brief introduction to assertiveness and browse some of the useful online information listed below.
(B) Consider obtaining a book on assertiveness (see recommendations below).
(C) In session, we can discuss assertiveness skills and help you prepare to use them.
(D) Cognitive reappraisal can be used to correct beliefs that encourage non-assertive behavior.
(E) Practice assertiveness skills in a variety of situations.
(3) A brief introduction to assertiveness, by Nelson Binggeli, PhD
(4) Recommended books
The first resource is online and free. The second one is a very good book on assertiveness. The third one gives specific attention to assertiveness issues for women.
Michel, F. (2008). Assert Yourself. Perth, Western Australia: Centre for Clinical Interventions. A free online workbook. www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself > Assertiveness
Paterson, R. J. (2000). The Assertiveness Workbook: How to Express Your Ideas and Stand Up for Yourself at Work and in Relationships. New Harbinger. www.randypaterson.com/books/assertive-workbook.html. Excerpts. From the Introduction and from Chapter One, segments selected to give you an idea what the book is about. [Amazon]. [Corvallis Public Library]
de Azevedo Hanks, J. (2016). The Assertiveness Guide for Women. New Harbinger. [Amazon]
(5) Useful online information
Mountain State Centers for Independent Living
University of Illinois Counseling Center
(6) Additional resources
Assertiveness Inventory (PDF) - Adapted from Alberti, R. & Emmons, M. (1995). Your perfect right: A guide to assertive living. San Luis Obispo, CA: Impact Publishers.
Being Assertive, by Chris Williams, PhD (from the book Overcoming Depression) [PDF]