Gender and Family Type as Factors Influencing Assertive Behavior of Workers in Anambra State
A Study of Non-Academic Staff of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
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Abstract
Assertive behavior has increasingly emerged as an important psychological and organizational construct, particularly within the workplace where employees are required to express their needs, defend their rights, and maintain healthy professional relationships without violating the rights of others. Thus, this study investigated gender and family types as factors influencing assertive behaviour of workers in Anambra State, specifically among non-academic staff at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam. The study was guided by four objectives and two hypotheses. The study was anchored on Social Learning Theory and Gender Schema Theory. The study adopted mixed methods research design and engaged multistage sampling procedure in selecting the study participants. The quantitative data collected for the study was analysed using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data collected was analyzed thematically. The study found that majority of non-academic staff in Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam have balanced assertive behaviour. It was also found in the study that majority of non-academic staff have positive assertive behaviour and also express their opinion politely but firmly. The study further found that gender influence assertive behavior and it also influences the discussion held in workplace between gender. Further, the study found that family type influence assertive behaviour. Based on these findings the study recommended among others that the university management should organize regular gender-sensitive assertiveness training for staff, using workshops and role-play exercises to build confidence in communication as this will lead to improved expression of opinions by both men and women without fear of conflict.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Anthonia Onyinye Ilodigwe, Ezealla Evangeline Chinaza, Olisa Adaeze Linda (Author)
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