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PDEV 0009 - Assertiveness Training

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/pdev-0009/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Hours: 18 lecture Description: Step by step strategies for becoming more assertive, rather than passive or aggressive. Learn verbal and nonverbal skills for communicating with people more authentically, effectively and fairly. Examines cultural and social differences in assertive communication. (CSU) Units 1 Lecture-Discussion 18 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 18 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Apply critical thinking and problem-solving strategies in communication to make personal decisions. Increase self-advocacy skills leading to life success. Course Content Outline I. Baseline Analysis of Current Level of Assertiveness A) The right to be assertive B) Assessment of individual assertiveness C) Identify areas of desired improvement II. Introduction to Assertiveness A) Cultural and familial values B) Age and gender issues C) Internal versus external locus of control D) Passive, aggressive and assertive behavior styles E) Verbal and nonverbal elements of communication F) Situational assertiveness III. Relation of Self-esteem to Assertiveness A) Methods to increase self-concept B) Identifying external and internal factors that influence self-esteem C) Modifying cognitive reasoning by implementing positive self-statements D) Barriers to behavioral change, solutions to overcome these barriers E) Assessment of individual barriers and strategies for successful behavioral changes IV. Stress Management A) Identifying individual stressors B) Stress management techniques C) Progressive relaxation D) Stress reduction activities V. Assertiveness Exercises A) Aspects of effective communication B) Practice verbal and non verbal communication C) Congruence of nonverbal behavior with verbal message D) Scripting practice encounters E) In class role-plays VI. Classic Situations and How to Handle Them A) Assertiveness as a choice B) Cultural considerations C) Initiating both positive and negative assertions in a variety of situations VII. Outcomes of Assertive Behavior A) Anticipating and handling the reactions of others B) Letting go of expected outcomes C) Observation of personal outcomes VIII. Assertiveness to Create Positive Relationships A) Complimenting others B) Assertiveness with loved ones C) Assertiveness at work Course Objectives Course Objectives Through written assignments, objective exams, and in class activities, students will: 1. Distinguish the differences between passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, and assertive behavior; 2. Compare and contrast perceptions of assertiveness in other cultures, genders, ages, and ethnicities; 3. Investigate the influences of assertiveness, self-esteem, and stress on individual behavior patterns; 4. Recognize the typical barriers to behavior change; 5. Analyze personal behavior and barriers to behavior change in targeted interpersonal encounters; 6. Identify and apply methods to overcome barriers to change; 7. Apply the techniques and principles of assertiveness; and 8. Perform a chosen set of new assertive behaviors and chart improvement in interpersonal relationships. Methods of Evaluation Classroom Discussions Essay Examinations Skill Demonstrations Reading Assignments 1. Read chapter on cultural differences in assertive communication and write a one-page paper giving examples of some; include verbal and nonverbal differences. 2. Read the article "Acting Assertively" and be prepared to discuss in class. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Prepare a script utilizing the D.E.S.C. assertiveness format given in the text. Using a real life situation, develop the script to demonstrate assertive communication. 2. Write a two-page paper describing the specific areas in your life where you find yourself behaving either passively or aggressively and analyze your personal barriers to behaving assertively. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.