t as we start looking into aggression.To be called assertive is a compliment. To be told that you are aggressive is viewed as a criticism, and to be considered violent is to be condemned (Hirsch 1981). What is the difference between the three? The Websters Dictionary defines assertive as positive; aggressive; and dogmatic. Aggression is defined as an unprovoked offensive attack, invasion, or the like and violence as rough or injurious physical force, action, or treatment; an unjust or unwarranted exertion of force or power...(1993). These dictionary definitions are obviously different from that of psychologists, social workers and psychiatrists. Aggression involves complete lack of concern for the other person and major emphasis on the gimme syndrome without consideration for the others involved (Hirsch 1981). Assertiveness, on the other hand, does not involve attack. It focuses on meeting ones needs. Self-respect is an example of assertive behavior. It has been found that women who are assertive are often labeled as aggressive. Influencing this attitude is the concept that women are innately less aggressive that men, and therefore any demonstration of definite behavior is perceived negatively, since it is unexpected (Hirsch 1981). This raises the important question of whether or not females are less aggressive than males. The Psychobiology of Aggression states that aggression is ...overt behavior involving intent to inflict noxious stimulation or to behave destructively toward another organism (Hirsch 1981). There are many other definitions of aggression that each lead to a different step. What is the determining factor of these definitions is the concept that aggressiveness is negative. Therefore, when an assertive act by a woman is labeled as aggressive, it gives the woman the message that the act of standing up for her rights is unacceptable (Hirsch 1981). I feel that this idea is slipping away in todays society bec...
