Table 1 Overview of the training program
Session | Theme | Content |
|---|---|---|
1 | Introduction | · Making groups (three members per group) · Self-introductions to get to know each other · Outline of the program and sharing the rules |
What is assertive | · Teaching what assertiveness is, the right to assert oneself, and communication patterns | |
How to communicate assertively | · Teaching skills necessary for assertive communication | |
Making requests | · Using assertive skills (making requests through role-play). | |
Reviewing and setting an action plan | · Reviewing and summarizing the day’s session · Setting an action plan (homework) | |
2 | Reviewing previous session | · Reviewing what we have learned in the previous session. · Sharing what I have done as homework with group members. |
Improving cognitive flexibility (restructuring dysfunctional thoughts) | · Using cognitive restructuring technique (Thought Challenging Record) to replace stress-inducing thought with more accurate, balanced, and less rigid thinking. | |
Declining requests | · Using assertive skills (declining requests through role-play). | |
Giving and receiving praise | · Using assertive skills (giving and receiving praise through role-play). | |
Reviewing and setting action plan | · Reviewing and summarizing the day’s session · Setting an action plan |