Assertive Communication
A friend unloads heavy topics without checking if you’re okay to listen. How can you respond assertively? (avoiding passive or aggressive communication)
What is “I want to support you, but I need to know you’re okay with me setting limits.”
When someone says “I need reassurance,” it means…
What is “They’re feeling uncertain and want emotional support or affirmation.”
A person constantly changes the subject when emotions come up. What's going on?
What is “They may feel unsafe with vulnerability or fear being overwhelmed by emotional intensity.”
Tone of voice can change the entire meaning of a message.
What is true — tone conveys emotion and intent beyond the words themselves.
This anxiety disorder can cause avoidance of eye contact, difficulty initiating conversation, and fear of judgment.
What is social anxiety disorder?
Your coworker keeps interrupting your lunch break with non-urgent questions. How can you respond assertively? (avoiding passive or aggressive communication)
What is “I’m happy to help after lunch, but I need this time to recharge.”
When someone says “I’m trying to de-escalate,” it means…
What is “They’re working to calm a tense or heated situation.”
When someone says “Whatever,” during a disagreement, this means...
What is “I feel unheard or frustrated, and I’m shutting down emotionally.”
Being honest means saying everything you think.
What is false — honesty should be paired with tact, timing, and emotional awareness.
This condition causes progressive memory loss and confusion, often leading to impaired verbal expression and comprehension.
What is dementia?
Your friend jokes about something you’ve said is a sensitive topic. How can you respond assertively? (avoiding passive or aggressive communication)
What is “I’ve told you that hurts me — please don’t joke about it again.”
When someone says “I need to protect my peace,” it means…
What is “They’re prioritizing their mental health and avoiding unnecessary conflict or stress.”
When someone says “I feel like I’m walking on eggshells,” this means...
What is “I’m constantly anxious about triggering someone’s anger or emotional reaction.”
“You” statements are more effective than “I” statements in conflict.
What is false — “You” statements often sound accusatory, while “I” statements promote clarity and ownership.
This disorder causes rapid shifts in mood and energy, which can result in erratic or pressured speech during manic episodes.
What is bipolar disorder?
A friend keeps canceling plans last minute without explanation. How can you respond assertively? (avoiding passive or aggressive communication)
What is “I value our time — can we talk about what’s been going on?”
When someone says “I’m emotionally unavailable,” it means…
What is “They’re not in a place to connect deeply or share feelings right now.”
A friend constantly apologizes for expressing their feelings. What might be going on?
What is “They may have internalized shame or fear being seen as needy or dramatic.”
People from different cultures may interpret the same gesture differently.
What is true — cultural context shapes how we send and receive nonverbal cues.
This neurodevelopmental disorder affects social interaction, nonverbal communication, and understanding emotional cues.
What is autism spectrum disorder?
A friend makes sarcastic comments about your boundaries. How can you respond assertively? (avoiding passive or aggressive communication)
What is “If something’s bothering you, I’d prefer we talk about it directly.”
When someone says “I’m trying to be mindful,” it means…
What is “They’re paying attention to their thoughts and feelings in the present moment without judgment.”
A friend frequently jokes about their pain or trauma. What might be going on?
What is “They may be using humor as a defense mechanism to avoid deeper emotional discomfort.”
Avoiding eye contact always means someone is lying.
What is false — it can also signal anxiety, neurodivergence, or cultural norms.
This disorder may cause a person to interrupt frequently, struggle with listening, and lose track of conversations.
What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?