Assertiveness is the ability to express one’s thoughts, feelings, and needs honestly and appropriately, defending one’s rights without violating those of others (as opposed to passivity and aggression). In adolescence, this skill is crucial for healthy inclusion, as it allows young people to define their own identity within the group.
A teenager who lacks assertiveness runs the risk of being exploited, manipulated or silenced by their peers (passivity), or of generating rejection through hostile communication (aggressiveness). Assertiveness, on the other hand, allows young people to set clear boundaries (e.g., saying “no” to peer pressure to use drugs or engage in bullying) and express disagreement without causing social disruption.
Assertiveness training in “Tu Mejor Versión” empowers at-risk young people to defend their own dignity. It teaches them to transform internal frustration into effective communication, negotiating differences constructively. By being assertive, adolescents maintain their individuality while participating socially, demonstrating self-respect which, ironically, is the key to gaining the respect of others and forging genuine and equitable social relationships, fundamental to inclusion based on equality.
Reference: Alberti, R. E., & Emmons, M. L. (2008). Your perfect right: Assertiveness and equality in your life and relationships. Impact Publishers.