This paper successively examines the components of assertive behavior, its measurement instruments and the different techniques used to teach patients how to become more assertive. The therapeutic applications of assertive training are also summarized. The discussion emphasises the need for comparative studies with long term follow-ups and considers the problems of generalization outside the experimental setting. The use of anger is questioned because assertive training serves neither to eliminate nor exaggerate aggression but to control it. The authors conclude that a good assertive training technique should include simple and clearcut instuctions, behavior rehearsal and modeling.