ASSESSING YOUR OWN PERSONALITY
Assertiveness
Indicate how characteristic or descriptive each of the following statements
is of you by using this code: þ3¼very characteristic; þ2¼rather charac-
teristic; þ1¼somewhat characteristic; –1¼somewhat uncharacteristic;
–2¼rather uncharacteristic; –3¼very uncharacteristic.
1. Most people seem to be more aggressive and assertive than
I am.*
2. I have hesitated to make or accept dates because of “shyness. ”*
3. When the food served at a restaurant is not done to my
satisfaction, I complain about it to the waiter or waitress.
4. I am careful to avoid hurting other people ’s feelings, even
when I feel that I have been injured.*
5. If a salesman has gone to considerable trouble to show me
merchandise that is not quite suitable, I have a difficult time
saying “No.” *
6. When I am asked to do something, I insist upon knowing
why.
7. There are times when I look for a good, vigorous argument.
8. I strive to get ahead as well as most people in my position.
9. To be honest, people often take advantage of me.*
10. I enjoy starting conversations with new acquaintances and
strangers.
11. I often don’ t know what to say to attractive persons of the
opposite sex.*
12. I will hesitate to make phone calls to business establishments
and institutions.*
13. I would rather apply for a job or for admission to a college by
writing letters than by going through with personal interviews.*
14. I find it embarrassing to return merchandise.*
15. If a close and respected relative were annoying me, I would
smother my feelings rather than express my annoyance.*
16. I have avoided asking questions for fear of sounding stupid.*
17. During an argument I am sometimes afraid that I will get so
upset that I will shake all over.*
18. If a famed and respected lecturer makes a statement that I
think is incorrect, I will have the audience hear my point of
view as well.
19. I avoid arguing over prices with clerks and salesmen.*
(continues)Strengths and Criticisms of the Behavioral/Social Learning Approach 369