Facilitating Assertive Training Groups. A Manual

This manual describes an assertive training group model which is an integration of current theories on assertiveness, facilitator experience and client feedback. Assertive training is defined as the facilitation of a set of skills designed to improve an individual's appropriate expression of his feelings, maintenance of personal rights and meeting of personal needs. The model described in this manual calls for eight two-hour weekly sessions. This format is viewed as optimal in that it allows group members opportunities to try out new behaviors in social situations between group meetings, and then to receive evaluative feedback in the safer group setting. The authors contend that the assertive training group, as a structured course, may be facilitated by a minimally-trained person. Consequently the manual contains detailed instructions for the facilitator. Screening of participants is viewed as one of the most important variables in conducting an effective assertive training group because the group model provides a very structured and specific treatment. Participants with confounding psychological problems are viewed as inappropriate. Step-by-step course outlines are presented, as well as session notes for facilitators. (Author/PC)