Relationship of Client-Perceived Facilitative Conditions on Outcome of Behaviorally Oriented Assertive Training

Abstract

This study investigated the enhancement of assertive outcome via the addition of emphasis on development of a therapist-client facilitative relationship. Three assertive conditions were run for 8 wk. at 2 hr. per week. One condition concluded sessions with a 15-min. discussion, another with 15 min. facilitative interchange, the third in the usual behavioral training manner. All three used modeling, role-playing, imagery, and feedback. Significant changes in assertion were noted in all three conditions. While gains between conditions were not significant, clients, irrespective of treatment, who perceived higher levels of facilitative conditions had lower post-treatment scores of discomfort associated with assertive behavior. Results suggest support for an enhancer or additive effects of a facilitative relationship between therapist and client on change in assertiveness following the behaviorally oriented training program. Training in assertiveness was conceptualized as a two-stage process, an initial stage of realistic self-assessment and assessment of the situation, followed by a stage in which acquisition and practice predominate.