The Relationship Between Assertive Communication and People Pleasing Behavior in Early Adulthood

Abstract

People-pleasing behavior is frequently observed among university students and may negatively affect their psychological well-being, decision-making ability, and interpersonal relationships. Assertive communication is considered an important factor that helps individuals express their thoughts, feelings, and needs appropriately while respecting others. Therefore, this study hypothesized that there is a negative relationship between assertive communication and people-pleasing behavior among students. This research aimed to determine the level of assertive communication, the level of people-pleasing behavior, and the relationship between the two variables among students of the Guidance and Counseling Study Program. A quantitative correlational design was employed involving 140 students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using the Assertive Communication Scale and the People-Pleasing Behavior Scale, both of which had been tested for validity and reliability. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s rho correlation test. The results revealed a strong and significant negative relationship between assertive communication and people-pleasing behavior (r= -0.791, p< 0.0001). These findings indicate that students with higher levels of assertive communication tend to exhibit lower levels of people-pleasing behavior. The results highlight the importance of developing assertive communication skills to help students establish healthy interpersonal boundaries and reduce excessive approval-seeking tendencies.