Many institutions and school systems have adopted the Positive Peer Culture (PPC) method for helping disturbed adolescents by turning the peer culture from a negative to a positive "caring" force. The paper discusses some of the major limitations and how assertion training, in conjunction with PPC, provides a successful resolution. (Author/SB)

Investigates the effects of child controllability on adult assertiveness, as moderated by adult control perceptions. Four boys (aged seven to nine), trained to be responsive or unresponsive, interacted in adult-child dyads on a toy construction task with 32 women. (Author/SS)

Assertiveness, defined as perceived confidence to express true feelings in interpersonal relationships, has been reported to correlate with HIV risk avoidance. However, Japanese social structure encourages "amae" or self-repression. The present study investigated the implications of "amae" for HIV risk avoidance among Japanese university students.…

The authors reviewed the content, methods, and overall quality of 21 curricula used in abstinence-only-until-marriage programs. Only materials designed for use in middle school grades (fifth to eighth) or with middle school-aged audiences (9-13 years of age), which presented the abstinence message in at least 40% of their content, were included. A…

This study assessed the relationships of assertiveness, depression, and social support among nursing home residents. The sample included 50 older nursing home residents (mean age=75 years; 75% female; 92% Caucasian). There was a significant correlation between assertiveness and depression (r=-.33), but the correlations between social support and…

Evidence indicates that after-school programs are beneficial to children in the elementary school years, especially when they target more than just problem behaviors, but also focus on a wide range of positive developmental outcomes such as critical thinking, self-awareness and self-confidence (Catalano et al., 2002). The most effective programs…

This study examined adult resilience in the context of the adversity of unemployment. Seventy-seven unemployed job seekers completed a self-report survey containing the Resilience Scale (G. M. Wagnild & H. M. Young, 1993), Centre for Epidemiologic Studies-Depressed Mood Scale (L. S. Radloff, 1977), and the Assertive Job Hunting Survey (H. A.…

In order to develop a comprehensive substance abuse prevention plan for a boarding school for American Indian middle school students, the students (N = 66) were surveyed at two time points and teacher reports and discipline records were collected. Factors most strongly related to substance use were affiliation with risk-taking peers, lower levels…

The purpose of the described assertion-training workshop was to give participants some knowledge of the process and content of the job interview and assertive verbal and nonverbal interview behavior. (Author)

The article discusses various techniques which teachers can use to foster student assertiveness. (NQ)

Study investigated the effects of assertion training on 36 female college students. The experimental group showed an increase in assertiveness, internal locus of control, and self-concept, as well as a reduction in anxiety. (RB)

Reports follow-up evaluations of effectiveness of cognitive-behavior modification (CBM) and cognitive-behavior modification plus assertion training (CBM/AT) treatments in reducing Type A behavior among university faculty. CBM and CBM/AT groups continued to report significantly less Type A behavior, less speed and impatience. No differences were…

To provide practice for newly acquired assertiveness skills, leaders have stressed the importance of role playing. This emphasis on verbal exchange sometimes causes the attrition of quiet, introspective participants. This program suggests that art exercises activate the imagination and provide nonverbal methods of practice. (Author/BL)

Evaluated an assertion training package for adolescents (N=58). Students who received the assertion training treatment significantly improved their ratings on the Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale both at termination and at one-month follow-up. No effects were found on a locus of control scale or an anxiety scale. (JAC)

Surveyed 57 new mothers to examine the relationship between level of knowledge of informed consent to medical procedures during childbirth with other variables. Results showed women reporting knowledge of patient rights and desire to learn assertiveness were less likely to give birth by cesarean section. Discusses implications for counselors. (JAC)