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Group-think is avoided with the use of assertive behaviour by promoting open discussion of ideas (Mayer 2010) and empowering individuals to make requests and express opinions (Beebe, Beebe & Redmond 2014).  

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Assertiveness also has benefits in guarding against the dangers of ‘group-think’ within workplace teams. This occurs when group members are pressured to conform and refrain from critically evaluating ideas (Marsteller et al. 2013).  

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Employing an assertive, yet respectful manner can prevent communication breakdown (Beebe, Beebe & Redmond 2014) and also promote team cohesiveness (Ames 2009).

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One benefit of assertive behaviour within the workplace is in reducing conflict (Mayer 2010) by assisting individuals to identify and confront unacceptable behaviour in an empathic and respectful manner (Beebe, Beebe & Redmond 2014).

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3.2 The benefits of assertiveness in preventing conflict and group-think within workplace teams

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This is in contrast to passive behaviour which lack openness, and to aggressive and manipulative behaviours, which lack receptiveness (Robbins & Hunsaker 2007; Eunson 2014).  

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Assertive behaviour is open and receptive to others (Robbins & Hunsaker 2007) and responsive to the specific situation and relationship (Bishop 2013).

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This skill enables a person to acquire what they seek, using verbal and non-verbal communication (Ames 2009), whilst still respecting the rights of others (Eunson 2014).  

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The skill of assertiveness is defined as the ability to advocate for, defend and act in the interests of one’s own goals (Ames 2009).

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3.1 Explanation of the interpersonal skill of assertiveness

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3.0 The interpersonal communication skill of assertiveness and benefits of its use in the workplace

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Such interaction requires the affirmation of the self and others (Wood 2013).  

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Interpersonal communication is defined as a transactional and mutually influential interaction between unique individuals (Beebe, Beebe & Redmond 2014).

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2.0 A brief definition of interpersonal communication