A detailed handout describing four key communication styles (assertive, passive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive) to support psychoeduction and communication skills development.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Assertive communication can lead to improvements in mental health symptoms, relationships, workplace performance, and personal safety. A key component of assertiveness training is recognizing different ‘styles’ of communication and correcting misconceptions about assertiveness. This information handout provides a detailed overview of assertive and non-assertive styles of communication (i.e., passive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive), outlining the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, intentions, and typical consequences associated with each style.
Communication styles influence how individuals interact, express their needs, and manage conflict. Understanding and developing effective communication skills is essential for mental health and healthy relationships.
For clients who fear judgment and avoid speaking up.
For individuals who struggle with expressing concerns or saying no.
For clients who find it difficult to advocate for themselves.
As part of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills training for interpersonal effectiveness.
Helps clients confidently express their thoughts, feelings, and needs.
For clients struggling with patterns of avoidance, conflict, or submission.
For difficulties with boundaries, conflict, or assertiveness at work.
Use the handout to introduce the concept of communication styles.
Discuss examples of each style and identify which are most familiar to the client.
Encourage clients to reflect on the outcomes of different communication patterns in their own life.
Discuss more effective ways of communicating (e.g., assertiveness).
Model, practice, and fine-tune assertive communication.
This Communication Styles – Extended resource draws on research exploring interpersonal behavior and assertiveness training. Assertive communication is considered an adaptive form of self-expression that emphasizes clarity, respect, and responsibility.
Assertiveness deficits have been conceptualized through various lenses, including skills deficits, response inhibition, and difficulties knowing when to communicate in this way (Linehan, 1979). Conversely, assertive communication is associated with positive psychological and social outcomes, such as improved self-esteem, reduced anxiety, and enhanced relational functioning.
Assertiveness training typically involves self-monitoring, cognitive restructuring, behavioral skills training, and real-world practice. This detailed handout supports these therapeutic components by providing key psychoeducation regarding different communication styles.
