Practicing Assertiveness at School, at Home, and Online

Written By: Gianna Matta

Published: September 24, 2025

Being assertive means standing up for yourself respectfully and clearly, without being aggressive or passive. For teens, learning this skill is important. It helps build confidence, strengthen relationships, and set healthy boundaries. Whether at school, at home, or online, practicing assertiveness creates a stronger sense of self and encourages positive communication.

At School

School is full of situations where assertiveness matters, from group projects to classroom discussions. Speaking up with your own ideas, asking questions when confused, and saying “no” to peer pressure are all examples of being assertive. It shows confidence and helps others respect your voice.

At Home

Assertiveness at home helps teens build trust with family members. It’s about expressing needs clearly, like asking for privacy, sharing feelings honestly, or requesting help when stressed. Using “I” statements such as “I feel…” or “I need…” can make communication stronger and avoid misunderstandings.

Online

Social media and texting make communication fast, but sometimes it’s harder to be clear or respectful. Practicing assertiveness online means setting boundaries, like choosing not to engage in negative comments, being clear about personal values, and asking for space if someone’s behavior feels overwhelming. It’s also about staying kind while standing firm.

Building Confidence Through Practice

Assertiveness is a skill that gets easier with practice. Starting small, such as speaking up in class, sharing an opinion at dinner, or responding calmly online, can make a big difference over time. The more teens practice, the more natural it feels to stand up for themselves while respecting others.