Assertive Communication

In this activity, you will explore assertiveness. This powerful way of being creates great results, strengthens relationships, and builds self-esteem. Please study the related PowerPoint before submitting your discussion. Posts that are not academic in nature and just reflect the author’s personal opinions receive minimal points.

Example

Imagine that you feel sick one day and decide not to go to your history class. You phone a classmate, and she agrees to call you after class with what you missed. But she never calls. After the next history class, the instructor gives a test that was announced the day you were absent, and you fail it. Afterward, your classmate apologizes: “Sorry I didn’t call. I was swamped with work.” What responses would you choose?

Placating: On, don’t worry about it. I know you had a lot on your mind. I probably would have failed the test anyway.

Blaming: You are the lousiest friend I have ever had! After making me fail that test, you have some never even talking to me!

Leveling: I am angry that you didn’t call. I realize that I could have called you, but I thought I could count on you to keep your word. If we’re going to be friends, I need to know if you’re going to keep your promises to me in the future. Will you?

Situation

You register for a course required in your major. It is the last course you need to graduate. When you go to the first class meeting, the instructor tells you that your name is NOT on the roster. The course is full, and no other sections of the course are being offered. You have been shut out of the class. The instructor tells you that you will have to postpone graduation and return next semester to complete this required course.

What to Do

Write three different responses to the instructor described in the following situation. Respond to the instructor 1- placating, 2- blaming, and 3- leveling. Remember, in each of the 3 responses, you are writing what you would actually say to the instructor – first as a placator, second as a blamer, and third as a leveler. For an example of this exercise, refer to the dialogue above.

Directions

• Do NOT copy my example!
• Read the Rubric for grading.
• Post by Wednesday evening at 11:59 pm Pacific Time
• Respond to at least 2 classmates by Saturday 11:59PM Pacific Time
• All the replies should have academic contents and provide reasoning. Comments like “I agree with you” or “I like your post” do not get any points!
• Be honest: As you write, tell yourself the absolute truth. Honesty leads to your most significant discoveries about yourself and your success.
• Be creative: Add favorite quotation, sayings, and poem. Use color, drawing, clip art, and pictures.
• Dive deep: When you think you have exhausted a topic, write more. Your most valuable thoughts will often take the longest to surface. So most of all- DIVE DEEP!