Abstract
M. Ed.
The development of behaviour, character and social skills of people stems from and
is maintained by means of interaction with other people. Actually, the most crucial
stage is during late adolescence, when proficiency in work ethics, relationships and
especially assertiveness should be shaped, as it has direct bearing on the situation
when someone does not act in an assertive manner in the work environment. People
who are able to act in a truly assertive manner are able to express their feelings,
thoughts and convictions without any aggression, in a non-destructive way, and to
act in a neither extremely controlling, nor inappropriately reticent fashion.
It has come to the notice of the researcher that the behaviour, social skills and
especially the assertiveness of a considerable number of late adolescents at a
specific technical training college, given their age, appear not be appropriate when
among adults, as they communicate ineffectively and are not able to verbalise their
expectations regarding their needs. It seems as if late adolescents do not want to
make their voices heard. With “voice” an own opinion in relation to choices is meant.
The researcher was left wondering whether they would be able to communicate in an
adult manner with employees, and express their needs by means of “I messages”,
as well as to what extent they would be able to take a stand solely on their own
behalf, when having to contend with possible problems in the work environment.
The emancipation process of late adolescents often gives rise to mixed emotions in
themselves. They simultaneously look forward to and fear the process of becoming
adults, which then results in them withdrawing themselves. Others then tend to view
them as being incompetent. As a part of their need for independence, they criticise
any boundaries, which in turn involves them in conflict. They display open hostility
towards others and reveal low quality problem-solving skills, relating to superficial
intra- and interpersonal skills in relationships with others.