The assertiveness workbook

The overassertive schoolyard bully often grows into an angry boss or violent spouse. The shy, unassertive youth may live forever as a pushover-timid, unconfident, and oblivious to the joy and dignity that every human deserves. What may come as a surprise is how much these two types of people have in common. Neither one is communicating effectively. Neither one is really satisfying his or her inner needs. In friendly, non-judgmental language, The Assertiveness Workbook demonstrates how to get the most out of relationships-and life-by engaging in healthy, two-way expressions of needs and desires. The first half of the workbook reveals the ways in which stress, expectations, and engrained beliefs challenge our ability to assert ourselves properly. The second half-"Becoming Assertive"-focuses on the actual skills needed to become assertive. Discussing nonverbal communication, providing and receiving feedback, saying "no," and making requests, it concludes with two chapters on that most difficult of subjects: Confrontation. Used in training workshops and by practicing clinicians, The Assertiveness Workbook is more than just a manual. Photocopy-ready scorecards, exercises, worksheets, and self-assessments all contribute to the ultimate goal: Feeling comfortable with yourself and comfortable with assertive behavior.