THE EFFECTS OF LOCUS OF CONTROL, COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND SOCIAL SUPPORT ON ASSERTIVENESS IN FEMALE NURSING STUDENTS

Abstract

In this study the interrelation of locus of control, social support and communication skills and their relation with assertiveness were investigated by means of a path model. Nursing students (N=105) participated in the study by completing questionnaires. Path analysis showed that the interrelation of locus of control, communication skills and perceived peer support and their relation with assertiveness are explained to a certain degree by the proposed model. The only variable that directly influenced assertiveness was communication skills. Perceived family support had no direct or indirect effect on assertiveness. The findings point to several considerations for nursing curricula including that faculties should plan and provide opportunities for learning activities that increase students' assertiveness.