Assertiveness and Ethnicity: Assertiveness Training for Sustainable Peace and Security in Nigeria

Abstract Background: Youth restiveness has become a global phenomenon. This tends to escalate to violence, terrorism, and unwarranted social perils. The study examines assertive, passive and aggressive behaviors in three major ethnic groups in Nigeria vis-à-vis the growing insecurity in the country, presenting assertiveness training as an intervention. Method: In a survey research, analyzed with analysis of variance, Assertive Behavior Inventory was employed in collecting data from 1,690 respondents across the three major ethnic groups: Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, age 16-76 years. Results: Significant ethnic variations existed in that Igbo respondents scored highest in assertiveness, Yoruba in passive behavior, and Hausa in aggressive behavior. Conclusion: The authors observe that the violence in the country is multifaceted in that the young as well as the elderly are involved. The authors emphasize assertiveness training as pivotal in promoting peace building - equipping all and sundry with social communication and interpersonal skills to resist manipulation, and constructively solve the problems of society.