Group versus individual assertion training

Abstract

16 nonassertive community women (mean age 39.1 yrs) participated in a study that compared the effectiveness of group assertion therapy with the effectiveness of individual assertion therapy. A clinical treatment procedure that included behavioral rehearsal, modeling, and coaching was used in both treatment modalities. Prior research using almost identical treatment procedures, screening requirements, and assessment batteries demonstrated the greater effectiveness of this therapeutic procedure as compared with a no-treatment control condition, in which Ss did not change over time. Results of this study indicate that there are no significant differences between group versus individual assertion training. Pre-, post-, and 3-mo follow-up measures (e.g., Rathus Assertiveness Schedule, S Inventory of General Trait Anxiousness) demonstrated that both treatments were effective in increasing assertive behavior skills and in reducing hostility and anger. When compared with the no-treatment control condition of an earlier comparable study, the 2 treatment conditions of the present study are shown to be superior. (6 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1979 American Psychological Association.