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Abstract

Although numerous studies have demonstrated that observers evaluate individuals portraying negative assertion as being more competent but less likable than nonassertive individuals, all of these studies have been experimental analogues. The present research examined the importance of negative assertion and its effects on long-term, naturalistic relationships. Fifty pairs of female undergraduate roommates, who had been nonsystematically assigned to live together, participated. One member of each pair completed self-report and idiographic role-play measures of negative assertion. The other member of each pair evaluated the general likability and social competency of her roommate and also completed self-report measures of assertion. The results yielded significant relationships between negative assertion and interpersonal attraction. Higher levels of assertive behavior were associated with perceptions of greater competency and likability. There also was a significant positive correlation between roommates' assertive behaviors. These results suggest that negative assertion exerts a significant effect on relationships and that the findings of previous research are probably not generalizable to longer-term, naturalistic relationships. The limitations and implications of these findings are discussed.

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Reactions to Assertion in "Controlled" Naturalistic Relationships

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