ASSERTIVENESS TRAINING MODULE FOR NURSES

Assertive behavior promotes equality in human relationships, enabling us to act our own best interests, to stand up for ourselves without undue anxiety, to express honest feelings comfortably, to exercise personal rights without denying the rights of others. Acting assertively increases chances for honest relationships, feeling better about oneself and gaining sense of control in everyday situations. However, asserting oneself may not necessarily guarantee happiness or fair treatment. Nonetheless, by developing an ability to express, one is able to reduce stress, increase feelings of self-worth, improve decision-making abilities, and feel more self-confident in relationships. Assertiveness is the ability to reveal oneself overtly, straightforwardly and appropriately, to honor one¿s own feeling and thoughts as well as oneself and to discover one¿s own abilities and limits. Assertiveness is considered also to be an essential social skill, especially for nurses. Becoming more assertive can lead to increased respect and recognition as a person and as a nurse.