Efficiency of assertiveness training on the stress, anxiety, and depression levels of college students (Randomized control trial)

The significance of assertiveness in promoting mental health is well acknowledged. To investigate the impact of assertiveness training on lowering anxiety, stress, and depression among college students at a private university in Cairo. In this study, three questionnaires were used: demographic, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), and Rathus Assertiveness Schedule. Students were randomly allocated to either a group that underwent assertiveness training (experimental group) or a control group. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was utilized with a pre- and post-assessment. The training program is an adapted version of DBT skills training. The training program includes mindfulness, assertiveness, and problem-solving skills through eight 90-min group sessions. There were ( = 50) students in the experimental group compared with ( = 50) the control group. Assertiveness group, in comparison with control group, resulted in significantly greater reductions in stress as shown in DASS scores (the effect size, = 0.52, < .000), anxiety (the effect size, = 0.30, < .000), depression (the effect size, = 0.21, < .000), and total scores of DASS (the effect size, = 0.45, < .000). Assertiveness group, in comparison with control group, resulted in significantly greater increase in assertiveness as shown in RAS scores (the effect size, = 0.38, < .000). It is possible that increasing an individual's level of assertiveness might be a helpful strategy for reducing feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression.