PROOF
WHAT IS ASSERTIVENESS TRAINING?
Assertiveness Training (AT) is a behavioral skills program designed to help individuals express thoughts, feelings, and needs directly and honestly while respecting others. The goal of AT programs are to develop confidence in self-advocacy through structured practice. Key principles of AT include:
Assertiveness is a learned skill, not an innate trait.
Training focuses on verbal & nonverbal communication (eye contact, posture, tone, "I" statements).
Uses role-playing, modeling, and feedback to reinforce skills
IS ASSERTIVENESS TRAINING EFFECTIVE?
Decades of research confirm that assertiveness training (AT) is a highly effective intervention with wide-ranging benefits for many populations. Key findings include:
Meta-analyses show AT is as effective as other cognitive-behavioral therapies for social anxiety & depression (Speed et al., 2018).
Has been used to help individuals with serious mental illness improve social skills and reduce hospitalization (Ustun & Kucuk, 2020).
Workplace studies confirm AT boosts communication, job satisfaction, and leadership (Jandhyala & Kumar, 2024).
Improvisational theater techniques align perfectly with AT by reinforcing active listening and quick thinking, while developing confidence in spontaneous situations. Improv provides low-risk practice with research backed benefits:
Increases self-confidence, eye contact, and social presence (Mehta et al., 2024).
Strengthens resilience and adaptability in dynamic social situations (Bassisa et al., 2023).
Used successfully in therapy, education, and workplace training (Waisanen, 2020).
For additional information on the research behind the methods used in Stand Your Ground, click here.