ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the understanding of appropriate and effective assertive behaviour in conflict situations. It summarises very briefly the literature concerned with the conceptualisation of assertive behaviour, noting that fuller discussions can be found in R. F. Rakos. Antecedent stimulus control involves arranging the environment prior to asserting so that the likelihood of a favourable outcome is maximised. These skills are assertive behaviours themselves: requests to move to a private room prior to a confrontation, requests for a delay prior to making a decision, or inquiries to the other person regarding convenient times to set aside for the discussion of concerns. Assertions that include subsequent obligations have been termed empathic assertions, and are judged to be as potent as, but more likeable and appropriate than, standard assertions. The paralinguistic and nonverbal features are critical components of social skill, effective communication, and assertion.
