Brief Description

The Rathus Assertiveness Schedule (RAS) is a 30-item self-report scale designed to assess an individual’s level of assertiveness—that is, their ability to express requests and needs directly and respectfully, without infringing on the rights of others. The items describe everyday situations in which the respondent evaluates their own typical behavior.

Purpose

To measure assertiveness, specifically the extent to which individuals advocate for their needs and requests while maintaining respect for the rights and needs of others.

Scoring Method

Responses are rated on a 6-point scale ranging from -3 to +3, excluding 0, which represents indifference or neutrality. Some items are reverse-scored. The total score ranges from -90 to +90, with higher scores indicating greater assertiveness.

Validity

The RAS demonstrates good face validity. Moreover, it shows statistically significant correlations (r = 0.53) with self-reported measures of assertiveness and related constructs, indicating satisfactory construct validity, though further validation is recommended.

Reliability

The internal consistency of the original version ranges from Cronbach’s α = 0.77 to 0.87. Test-retest reliability coefficients range from 0.79 to 0.86.

Data Analysis and Use

The RAS provides a total assertiveness score that can be used for comparative analysis across groups or in intervention programs. The results reflect the respondent’s expression of assertive behavior and are applicable in both counseling and research contexts.

References

Allport, G. (1928). Reaction Study. Boston: Houghton-Mifflin.
Guilford, J. P., & Zimmerman, W. S. (1956). The Guilford-Zimmerman Temperament Survey. Beverly Hills, CA: Sheridan Psychological Services.
Rathus, S. A. (1973). A 30-item schedule for assessing assertive behavior. Behavior Therapy, 4, 398–406.
Wolpe, J. (1969). The Practice of Behavior Therapy. New York: Pergamon.
Wolpe, J., & Lazarus, A. A. (1966). Behavior Therapy Techniques. Oxford: Pergamon.