Unbinding Assertion and Aggression in Research and Clinical Practice

Abstract

This paper documents widespread failure of the clinical and research literature to differentiate assertiveness from coercive aggressive behavior. Confusion with aggression is tied to early theoretical models, semantic errors, and differential value judgments. Recent concepts and research bearing upon the differentiation of assertion and aggression are reviewed. Standard self-report and behavioral measures of assertion are evaluated in terms of (a) confounding with aggression, and (b) failure to provide separate assessment of aggression. Adequate evidence of discriminant validity (in this case, the ability to discriminate between the constructs of assertion and aggression) is lacking for all measures reviewed. However, particular instruments have considerable promise. Recommendations are made for improving discriminant validity of self-report and behavioral methods of assessing assertion.