[Observations on the assertiveness and its relation to empathy in Greek students]

The aim of the present study is to determine the level of assertiveness in a sample of male Greek students and in addition to compare the level of assertiveness with the various factors of empathy. The data of a sample of 104 Greek students were collected by using the Rathus Assertiveness questionnaire which evaluates assertiveness. The questionnaire used in a randomized sample of students, it was anonymous, voluntary and the students were asked to answer it in their personal time. In order to obtain reliable results the questionnaire was translated into the Greek language by two independent translators. The scores obtained were compared with various social factors such as: age, educational status of parents, and whether the students lived with their family or not. The results of the statistical analysis of our data revealed that: (a) There is no significant difference in the level of assertiveness between groups of students living alone or with their parents. (b) The assertiveness of students seems to be related with the educational level of their mothers. (c) In the whole of the students sample there is a statistically significant negative correlation between assertiveness and empathic concern, as well as between assertiveness and personal distress. (d) As regards the social status of the students, assertiveness is positively correlated with personal distress in students who live alone. (e) In contrast, assertiveness in students living with their parents seems to be negatively correlated with cognitive empathy, as well as empathic concern. The results of this study provide evidence that assertiveness has a strong relationship with empathy and the above results are discussed in relation to the pertinent literature examining the content of assertiveness.