Overall results (score 35)

According to his results on the Assertiveness Test, John seems to lack many of the skills needed to effectively stand up for himself in day-to-day situations. In some situations, he is able to add his two-cents, but in general this does not come naturally to him. There may be a number of reasons he avoids expressing his opinions and needs. However, regardless of the causes of his low assertiveness, he should be encouraged by the fact that he can learn to be more assertive. There are, after all, a number of benefits to being self-assured that he doesn't want to miss out on: assertive people enjoy increased self-confidence, more respect from others, a stronger feeling of control over their lives and, of course, an increase in the possibility that their needs will be met.

Ability to speak for self (score 33)

John seldom addresses the issues that concern him the most. Whether it's a problem with others or seeking out what he feels he deserves, he usually waits for someone else to bring it up. When someone treats him poorly, he often hesitates to speak openly. Letting people know he disagrees with them is difficult since he generally lacks self-assurance. However, he needs to realize that if he acts like he deserves respect, others will probably treat him accordingly.

Handling assertive/strong people (score 39)

According to his results, John has difficulty dealing with authority figures in an assertive way. He usually feels intimidated and threatened by people who have strong opinions and is often overcome with feelings of inferiority, which keeps him from effectively expressing his views. Perhaps he feels inferior or doesn't feel as though his opinion is as important as those of others. Thus, once he experiences these feelings of inadequacy, he finds it hard to work up the courage needed to deal with individuals who are assertive. John should keep in mind that he has something worthwhile to contribute too.

Comfort with Vulnerability (score 35)

John's answers show that he has a fear of being vulnerable. He tends to avoid getting into any situation where he is "exposed". He usually prefers bottling things up because he is afraid of making a fool of himself. This could stem from an inability to cope with rejection or embarrassment, and it might begin to affect him to the point where he will avoid taking such risks altogether. Unfortunately, there will be work situations where he will need to put himself out there, like voicing his opinion in a meeting, so if he doesn't step out of his comfort zone from time to time, he may find himself at a loss.

Subservience (score 67)

When he feels that what he wants may be in conflict with the desires of others around him, John generally allows their needs to dictate his behavior. He may end up feeling like he is the victim in a situation because he lets others treat him like a doormat. This could sometimes result in taking the blame for things he is not responsible for. However, if he keeps in mind that his opinion is just as valuable as anyone else's, he will soon find it easy to add in his view when asked.

Aggression (score 0)

The results of this test show that John does not use aggressive tactics, like intimidation or swearing, to get his point across. Some would say that there is a fine line between assertiveness and aggression, but there are definite differences. Assertiveness is the ability to express opinions, thoughts, and wishes in a clear, direct way, even if there's the potential for rejection or disagreement. Aggression is unnecessarily forceful, hostile, demanding, or even manipulative. Aggression shows disrespect for other people, since it does not allow them to assert their own rights. Clearly, John stays far from aggressive behavior.