Maintenance and generalization of Assertive Skills

Abstract

This research project evaluated the development, maintenance, and generalization of assertive skills among 28 mentally retarded adults. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental (assertiveness training) group or a control group. The experimental group received 14 behavioral treatment sessions and the control group received delayed treatment. Results of the judges’ ratings of videotaped role-play responses indicated significant improvement in polite refusal of unreasonable requests as well as the first scientific evidence of significant generalization and 12-week maintenance of assertive refusal skills for the experimental group. The control group also showed significant improvement and generalization of skills after receiving assertiveness training.