Rathus Assertiveness Schedule (RAS)
Name: Age: Gender: Male/Female
You are required to rate the following each item on a scale of +3 to -3:
+3: Very characteristic of me
+2: Rather characteristic of me
+1: Slightly characteristic of me
0: Neither characteristic nor uncharacteristic of me
-1: Slightly uncharacteristic of me
-2: Rather uncharacteristic of me
-3: Very uncharacteristic of me
1. Most people seem to be more aggressive and assertive than I am.
2. I have hesitated to make or accept dates because of shyness.
3. When the food served at a restaurant is not good, I complain
about it to the waiter.
4. I am careful to avoid hurting other people’s feelings, even when I
feel that I have been injured.
5. If a salesperson has gone to considerable trouble to show me
something that is not quite suitable, I have a hard time saying
“No.”
6. When I am asked to do something, I insist upon knowing why.
7. There are times when I look for a good, vigorous argument.
8. I strive to get my own way.
9. I am open and frank about my feelings.
10. I am quick to express an opinion.
11. I avoid arguing over prices with clerks and salespeople.
12. When I have done something important or worthwhile, I
manage to let others know about it.
13. I enjoy starting conversations with new acquaintances and
strangers.
14. I often don’t know what to say in situations where a
conversation is expected.
15. I often get into arguments with people when I disagree with
them.
16. I can insist on my rights when I know I am right.
17. I find it embarrassing to return merchandise.
18. If a close and respected relative were annoying me, I would
smother my feelings rather than express my annoyance.
19. I have avoided asking questions for fear of sounding stupid.
20. When I am “in a position of power” over other people, I let
them know it.
21. I am not afraid to tell someone off when he or she deserves it.
22. If someone has been rude, I usually think it is better not to say
anything.
23. I sometimes avoid asking questions because I think they may be
inappropriate.
24. I am quick to challenge others when I disagree with them.
25. I hesitate to make phone calls to businesses and institutions.
26. I tend to bottle up my emotions rather than express them.
27. When I am treated unfairly, I complain about it to the people
responsible.
28. When a friend asks me to do something that I don’t want to do,
I will generally do it and not complain.
29. In group discussions, I am apt to speak out when I feel like it.
30. I would rather apply for a job or for admission to a school by
writing a letter than by going in person.
