STAT: Special techniques in assertiveness training for women in the health professions

by Melodie Chenevert

This text not only teaches readers how to develop assertiveness skills, but it also provides motivation for them to pursue self-improvement and advancement. Directed especially toward women, the book describes the differences between assertiveness and aggression and provides a basis for ongoing improvement in assertiveness skills.

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1983

Reviews

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is not just another book about assertiveness but one specifically geared towards women in the health profession, namely nurses but it applies to all women who work in this field.
Men have long held the power, Melodie Chenevert the author states, and she gives the battle cry for women, the natural caregivers, to stand up and speak up for the patient. (Statistics have no doubt have changed since this book’s original publication in 1978 and even from this third copy from 1988.)
There is practical advice given, such as discovering which persona is reacting or acting, the child, the parent or the adult. Then there is a section on discovering who you are and learning to appreciate and respect yourself.
She gives the “ten basic rights for women in the health profession” which should be hung in every hospital, health clinic, and laboratory around the world.
I did find parts of her book too feminist for me, especially her thoughts on child care and abortion. However, that said, it does offer invaluable tools for its target audience of female health care workers.
She recommends reading as much on the subject as possible, and taking assertiveness training. Developing assertiveness takes time, the author warns, but this book provides a good launching off place.