Table 1.

Overview of the training program

Session	Theme	Content
1	Introduction	· Making groups (three members per group) · Self-introductions to get to know each other · Outline of the program and sharing the rules
	What is assertive	· Teaching what assertiveness is, the right to assert oneself, and communication patterns
	How to communicate assertively	· Teaching skills necessary for assertive communication
	Making requests	· Using assertive skills (making requests through role-play).
	Reviewing and setting an action plan	· Reviewing and summarizing the day’s session · Setting an action plan (homework)
2	Reviewing previous session	· Reviewing what we have learned in the previous session. · Sharing what I have done as homework with group members.
	Improving cognitive flexibility (restructuring dysfunctional thoughts)	· Using cognitive restructuring technique (Thought Challenging Record) to replace stress-inducing thought with more accurate, balanced, and less rigid thinking.
	Declining requests	· Using assertive skills (declining requests through role-play).
	Giving and receiving praise	· Using assertive skills (giving and receiving praise through role-play).
	Reviewing and setting action plan	· Reviewing and summarizing the day’s session · Setting an action plan