Assert Yourself
One of your peers makes fun of you in front of your group session.
"I don't like it when you make fun of me. It makes me feel embarrassed and hurt."
What are some body language cues that may indicate aggressive behavior?
Examples may include pointing fingers, clenching fists, standing too close, making direct eye contact, and using a loud or intimidating tone of voice.
What is the main difference between aggression and assertiveness?
Aggression involves using force or intimidation to get what you want, while assertiveness involves expressing your needs in a confident and respectful manner.
Why is assertiveness important?
Being assertive can help you communicate effectively with others, build healthy relationships, and stand up for yourself without resorting to aggression.
What are some consequences of using aggressive behavior?
Aggressive behavior can damage relationships, lead to consequences in school, and harm others physically or emotionally.
You notice a classmate keeps looking at your answers despite trying to move your papers out of sight. What might you say to your classmate that is assertive and not aggressive?
Please stop looking at my answers or I am going to have to say something to the teacher.
What are some body language cues that may indicate assertive behavior?
Examples may include maintaining eye contact, standing up straight, using a calm tone of voice, and making clear and concise statements.
What are some examples of aggressive behavior vs. assertive behavior?
Aggressive: Yelling, hitting, name-calling, and threatening
Assertive: Speaking up for yourself, saying "no" when you need to, and expressing your opinions respectfully
How can you practice being more assertive?
Start by practicing saying "no" to small requests, speaking up for yourself when someone says something you don't agree with, and using "I" statements to express your feelings.
How can you respond to someone who is being aggressive towards you?
Stay calm, assert your boundaries, and seek help from a trusted adult if necessary.
You are working with a partner in class and don't like the idea your partner came up with. What might you say to your classmate?
Instead of saying: "That's a stupid idea," try: "I don't really like that idea."
How can body language affect the way a message is received?
Body language can convey emotion and attitude, and may either support or contradict the verbal message being communicated.
What is the tone of voice typically used in aggressive behavior vs. assertive behavior?
Aggressive: Loud, angry, and confrontational.
Assertive: Confident, clear, and respectful.
How can you develop assertiveness skills?
You can develop assertiveness skills by practicing in low-risk situations, setting small goals, and seeking support from friends, parents, or your therapist.
What are some types of aggression?
Types of aggression can include physical aggression (such as hitting or pushing), verbal aggression (such as yelling or insulting), and passive-aggressive behavior (such as ignoring or giving the silent treatment).
You did poorly on a quiz because you didn't understand the material. How might you use assertive language to communicate with the teacher?
Mr./Ms. [insert teacher name], is there a good time for you to go over what I missed, so I can understand it better before the test?
How can assertive body language help in difficult situations?
Assertive body language can help convey confidence, establish boundaries, and make it clear that the speaker is willing to stand up for themselves without resorting to aggression.
Why might someone use aggressive behavior vs. assertive behavior?
Someone might use aggressive behavior because they feel powerless, threatened, or unable to express themselves in a more assertive way.
What are some common misconceptions about assertiveness?
Some common misconceptions about assertiveness include that it is the same as aggression, that it is only for extroverted or confident people, and that it involves always getting your way.
How can you prevent aggressive behavior in yourself?
Preventing aggressive behavior involves recognizing triggers and practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or physical exercise.
A teacher snaps at you and another group of students to stop talking in class, even though you weren't the one talking. How might you handle this?
Let it slide it's a one time thing. If it happens multiple times, have a conversation with the teacher outside of class time.
How can aggressive body language escalate a situation?
Aggressive body language can make others feel threatened, defensive, or angry, and may cause a situation to escalate quickly.
How do aggressive behaviors vs. assertive behaviors affect self-esteem?
Aggressive behavior can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and low self-esteem.
Assertive behavior can improve self-esteem by helping individuals express themselves in a confident and respectful manner.
What are some benefits of using assertive behavior?
Being assertive can help you feel more confident, improve your communication skills, and strengthen your relationships with others.
What is the role of empathy in managing aggressive behavior?
Empathy can help individuals understand the perspective of others, communicate more effectively, and reduce the likelihood of engaging in aggressive behavior.
What are the 4 skills that show successful relationships
- Effective Communications
- Learning to start and continue difficult conversations
- giving and receiving positive reinforcements; and
- effective problem solving
Some ways of non-verbal communication
Show the group your example of an aggressive stance then assertive stance.
Recognize your rights in a situation without trespassin...
Avoid blaming, avoid using "you" messages
Confront the issues head-on Attack the problem and not the person.
What are the 3 ways of communicating?
Avoiding (flight)
Aggressive (fight)
Passive-aggressive (fake)
What are a few behaviors when displaying aggression?
- Make others pay
- Cause others to get angry and to get even often...
- Protect their own rights, but get what they want at the expense of others
= Name a couple more