Effects of Three Assertion Training Sessions on Schoolchildren’s Assertiveness and Mental Health

As a crucial period for self and identity development, early adolescence may give rise to emotional issues due to inadequate methods of self-expression. Therefore, the development of self-expression during early adolescence may play a significant role in interpersonal relationships. “Assertion” refers to the ability to express one’s thoughts and emotions appropriately while simultaneously respecting those of others; thus, assertiveness training (AT) focuses on appropriate expression while also respecting others. Previous studies have shown AT programs’ effects over 1 to 6 months, but the minimum number of effective sessions has not been determined. Thus, this single-group study without a control group examined pre–post changes in 102 5th-grade students following three 45 min AT sessions on self-expression, requesting favors, and politely declining requests. Changes in assertiveness and mental health were assessed using the TK-Style Communication Skills and the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Results of available case analyses (depending on the outcome) showed a significant increase in assertiveness scores and decreases in both nonassertiveness scores and SDQ total difficulties scores. Overall, three short AT sessions were associated with favorable pre–post changes in assertiveness and mental health-related outcomes; however, the absence of a control group limits the causal interpretation.