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The assertive-aggressive distinction and the cross-cultural perspective

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Abstract

Are assertive and aggressive behaviors distinguishable from each other across different cultures? A limited amount of research, reviewed here, indicates that they are. It seems that, across cultures, assertive and aggresive behaviors are identifiable as different constructs and that they vary independently from each other. Other variables that mediate differences on assertiveness between cultures such as individualism versus collectivism and masculinity versus femininity are considered. Finally, recommendations regarding research methodology for the study of assertive behaviors across cultures are presented.

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Fray, J.S., Hector, M.A. The assertive-aggressive distinction and the cross-cultural perspective. Int J Adv Counselling 10, 103–110 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00156464

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