Background

Assertiveness and self-esteem have emerged as crucial psychological traits that influence interpersonal effectiveness, professional performance, and emotional well-being—especially among nursing and healthcare students. Several researchers across different cultural and educational contexts have delved into this subject, uncovering insightful patterns and implications. This study explores how assertiveness develops over the course of a Post Graduation Nursing program and compare their levels. Identify associations between assertiveness levels and selected socio-demographic variables.

Methodology
A quantitative, Cross-sectional research design was adopted. The study was conducted in 8 selected nursing colleges of Uttar Pradesh each strata has 16 samples with randomization a total sample size of 126 Post Graduation students (63 from 1st year and 63 from 2nd year), selected through non-probability random sampling. Data was collected using Rathus Assertiveness Scale adaptive version self-administered assertiveness scale consisting of 30 items, with scoring categorized as mildly assertive (30–70), moderately assertive (71–110), and highly assertive (111–150). The tool demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.77). Socio-demographic data were also collected through a structured form.

Results
The statistical analysis, performed using SPSS v25.0, revealed a significant difference in assertiveness levels between Ist and IInd year students (t = +5.66, p < 0.05). The majority of IInd year students exhibited higher assertiveness scores compared to their 1st year counterparts, suggesting a positive development of assertiveness over time. Additionally, significant associations were observed between assertiveness levels and selected socio-demographic factors such as gender, year of study, place of residence, religion, parental education, family income, and years of experience after Under graduation Nursing.