20 male alcoholics and a matched group of 20 nonalcoholic drinkers (mean ages 50.0 and 49.6 yrs, respectively) were assessed on self-report and behavioral tests of assertive behavior and discomfort. Although there were no group differences in assertive behavior, alcoholics reported more assertive discomfort on both tests. The difference on the behavioral test was due to responses in negative situations. Both groups were less assertive in negative situations and more assertive with familiar males than with familiar females. With unfamiliar persons, however, all Ss were more assertive with females. Findings suggest assertive training with alcoholics should focus on reducing psychological discomfort in assertion-required situations. (2 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1979 American Psychological Association.
