Evaluation of assertive training and homosexual guidance service groups designed to improve homosexual functioning.

Proposes that clinicians should develop research-based procedures for homosexuals that are designed to facilitate homosexual functioning. Assertive training is considered as such a procedure. 27 male, 17-45 yr old Ss were randomly assigned to a behaviorally oriented assertive training group or a nondirective group run by a homosexual guidance service. Pre- and postassessment on 4 self-report measures indicated improvement in both groups but no between-group differences. Behavioral measures did not show change. It is suggested that procedures to facilitate assertiveness and confidence in homosexual functioning can be effective and should be more widely explored. (43 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)