Luckily, I've actually taught this!

Interpersonal Styles are the way in which we deal with other people. There are three categories in which you can fit in (keep in mind you could waffle between any of them.)

Aggressive: Being aggressive is stating how you feel and what you want at the EXPENSE of others.

Passive: Being passive is withholding your needs and feelings at YOUR expense.

Assertive: Being assertive is clearly stating your needs, feelings and opinions for the best outcome OF ALL involved parties.


The Definition of assertiveness is the ability to convey your needs and feelings respectfully, while respectfully listening to others needs and feelings.

Our goal is to learn how to interact with others in an assertive manner!!!

Someone asks you for a favor. How do you respond??

We will use this example. Your partner asks you to go to a store and pick up an item for them. You are having difficulty with daily errands due to your PTSD. What do you do?? You know they need the item, but you are edgy about shopping...

Respond assertively! It's a three step process..

Step one: I understand....

Say, I understand you need me to run to the store for you...

Step two: However, I feel....

Say, However, I feel very edgy when going into public stores, It makes me very anxious.

Step three: I suggest....

Say, I suggest that I will pick up the item later, when the store is not as busy... Etc..

This is the hard part. You are working towards a Workable comprimise!!! You are attempting to meet the person halfway. This means that you are considering yourself and the other person.

Now, this process takes practice. It seems simple, but it can be a lot of work when you are unused to it!! Keep practicing it!! Post yourself a little note on the three step process so that you remember how to do it!! You are not always going to succed at first. Just rememember, no one succeds perfectly at first!! This takes practice!!

GOOD LUCK and keep trying!!

Bec