Is modified brief assertiveness training for nurses effective? A single-group study with long-term follow-up

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of modified brief assertiveness training (with cognitive techniques) for nurses. Background: Most assertiveness training takes a long time to conduct; thus, briefer training is required for universal on-the-job training in the workplace. Methods: In this single-group study, nurses received two 90-min training sessions with a 1-month interval between sessions. The degree of assertiveness was assessed by using the Rathus Assertiveness Schedule as the primary outcome, at four time points: pre- and post-training, 3-month follow-up and 6-month follow-up. Results: A total of 33 nurses received the training, and the mean Rathus Assertiveness Schedule score improved from −14.2 (SD = 16.5) pre-training to −10.5 (SD = 18.0) post-training (p