Aggressiveness and Assertiveness

Abstract

Cross-cultural differences in aggressiveness and assertiveness between Israelis and Americans were studied using the Interpersonal Behavior Survey (IBS). The IBS was translated into Hebrew and tested for equivalence through back translation and item comparison techniques. Analysis of variance of data from 194 students from Israel and America found that Israelis generally respond more aggressively than Americans. Americans tend to have greater self-confidence, are more willing to accept or give praise, and are more likely to avoid conflicts. Israelis express anger more readily and more frequently disregard others' rights. Sex differences across cultures were concentrated mainly in the area of aggressiveness with males scoring higher than females.