The goal of nonassertive behavior is to avoid conflict and t…

The goal of nonassertive behavior is to avoid conflict and tension, and it is often accompanied by statements like “Don’t make waves” or “I don’t want any trouble.” Unfortunately, those who are prone to nonassertive behavior frequently do not get what they want. The goal of assertive behavior, in contrast, is to directly and honestly communicate one’s desires and wishes. A person who is assertive takes action rather than just thinking about it and usually ends up satisfied with the results.

In the 1960s, Rubin “Hurricane” Carter was a top contender f…

In the 1960s, Rubin “Hurricane” Carter was a top contender for the middleweight boxing championship. In 1966, however, he and a friend were arrested for shooting to death three white people in a tavern. Though he maintained his innocence, Carter was convicted of the crime by an all-white jury and imprisoned. In 1974, he published his autobiography, claiming that he was a falsely accused victim of racism. In 1975, his story inspired singer/songwriter Bob Dylan to write a song about the injustice of the case. This song, entitled “Hurricane,” elevated Carter to the status of a folk hero. At about the same time, witnesses who helped convict Carter recanted their testimony. In 1976, Carter was granted a new trial and released for six months. However, he was convicted a second time and sent back to prison, where he spent another nine years. During that time, a group of Canadians worked to free him, and in 1985, a federal judge affirmed Carter’s charge of racism and released him.