ABSTRACT
It is obvious that this conceptualisation of assertiveness is very broad, encompassing almost all forms of human interaction. Indeed, as Kelly (1982: 172) pointed out: ‘The terms “assertion training” and “social skills training” were often used in interchangeable fashion; it was not recognized that assertiveness represents one specific kind of interpersonal competency.’ It would seem that training in this field was introduced and found to be beneficial before the concept of assertiveness was defined with any precision. Dissatisfaction with this state of affairs led to a more focused study of assertion, based specifically upon the theme of standing up for one’s rights in a sensitive, competent manner. This latter interpretation is the one given by most dictionaries and a perspective usually held by lay people, and it is the view adopted in this chapter.
