Robin Lakoff proposed that women are more likely than men to use tentative speech forms (e.g., hedges, qualifiers/disclaimers, tag questions, intensifiers). Based on conflicting results from research testing Lakoff's claims, a meta-analysis of studies testing gender differences in tentative language was conducted. The sample included 29 studies…

Examined the appropriateness of assertive behavior in a study of 174 adults who read descriptions of assertive behavior with varied situational contexts. Results suggested assertiveness by women is viewed as slightly more appropriate. Both males and females expected higher appropriateness ratings from their own sex. (JAC)

To better understand the relation of feminist identification to sexuality, we compared the attitudes of feminist, egalitarian, and nonfeminist undergraduate women (N= 342) in five domains: (a) erotophilia (one's positive affective or evaluative responses to sexual stimuli), (b) sexual assertiveness, (c) perceived self-efficacy for safer sex, (d)…

Content and thematic analyses were used to examine women's written responses to a hypothetical attempted sexual assault. A community sample (N=371) participated in an experiment examining the effects of alcohol on sexual assault resistance. Women received a high-dose alcohol, low-dose alcohol, placebo, or control beverage and then projected…

Examined the inclusion of a cultural component in an assertiveness training program for 40 low income Puerto Rican women. Assertiveness scores of the training group were significantly higher than those of the no-training group. This effect was true regardless of level of education. (Author/ABB)

Past research has shown that self-defense/assertiveness training may have positive implications for sexual assault survivors. However, little is known about the correlates of self-defense/assertiveness training participation for sexually victimized women. In this study we examined the assault characteristics and experiences that relate to women's…

Two hundred fourteen (214) married persons, 101 men and 113 women aged 20-60, with at least high school education, participated in the study which investigated the effects of gender, age, and educational attainment on assertiveness among married persons in Nigeria. The Assertive Behavior Assessment scale (ABAS; Onyeizugbo, 1998) was used to…

Investigated the relationship between sex role orientations and performance in interpersonal situations. Males and females in each of four sex role categories role-played situations requiring the appropriate expression of assertiveness. Androgynous subjects were most effective in rated skills components while undifferentiated subjects were highly…

Describes and critiques criteria used to evaluate socially competent behavior of women. Discusses the relationship between the definition of competence used and the assessment methods relied on. Notes the advantages of focusing on specific goals and provides a checklist that consumers can use to review the content of training programs. (Author/ABB)

Critiques recent research on the social evaluation of assertive speech. Proposes an alternative theoretical framework, based on speech act theory. Assertiveness is viewed as a style of conversation occurring in complex interpersonal contexts. (Author/BJV)

Interpersonal relationships of students are subject to modification by college experience. Male returnees are more assertive, and expect and receive more spousal support. The female student may report marital happiness when support is low, as long as she and her spouse agree the support level is appropriate. (Author)

Studied the relation of self-efficacy and assertiveness to women's willingness to engage in traditional or nontraditional career activities. Strong self-efficacy expectations and assertiveness were related to willingness to engage in career-related activities of nontraditional but not traditional occupations where, regardless of self-efficacy and…