How do you define assertive?

Question

I think there is a big difference between assertive and aggressive. In my definition the word assertive means- to stand up for yourself by making a firm (request) and enforcing it though non-cooperation while aggressive is- making a (demand) and attempting to have it met with force. I hear other people use the two words as if they are synonymous. What do you think?

Answer 1

Assertiveness is simply being aggressive at the right time - only kidding!

The aggressive person tramples on other's rights to get what he wants|

The assertive person, on the other hand, insists on his rights when they are being violated, but he does so in a way that he respects the rights of the other person, even as he is trying to do him in|




---

Answer 2

I do think people get the words messed up as far as meaning and the way they use them. An assertive person will say what's on their mind in a polite but firm way. They tend to be great in business because they aren't afraid to come up with new ideas and suggestions. They will also go ahead and do things that need to be done without being asked to do them. An aggresive person will push people out of their way to get what they want. They tend to be more demanding than an assertive person. They tend to tell people what they need to be doing.Assertiveness is a good quality, aggressiveness isn't a positive way to handle situations or people.

Answer 3

When I think of the word assertive I think of my job, when someone has to tell you what to do everyday then your not very assertive, if you can go to your job and find a job to to without anyone telling you do do it then you are an assertive person. An aggressive person in my opinion is one with a strong overbearing attitude or agenda. The brown noser type, but really doesn't accomplish much except for makeing people mad. I'd rather be the assertive type.

Answer 4

I agree with you entirely.

I would use the word "assertive" as a claim to represent something that is decided and frontal (non-conflictive). If it came to personality styles or emotions, I would say that it is very openly expressive.

Aggressive, when it comes to a claim would represent something, as you said, forceful. Emotionally speaking it would represent someone with some sort of motive such as anger.

Answer 5

I think you are right... that we are both rebel. lol..
To me assertiveness is being open-minded and honest with what you really feel in your heart and dare to express it out thoughtfully, cleverly and profoundly from yourself. You are aware and alert of all the things that you say or do.
Aggressiveness is pretty much similar but it is not thoughtful and clever at all. It is only emotional feeling. Aggressiveness tend to be more about impulsiveness. You just follow your basic instinct without being aware or conscious of what you say or do at all.
-------

Answer 6

I think you nailed it. I don't know why people use them synonymously....unless its because they both start with the letter A.

Answer 7

assertive & aggressive people are both aholes

Answer 8

Having agression ay the same time.

Answer 9

i agree