The Right to an Assertive Life: Assertiveness as a Human Right

Assertiveness as a human right refers to the empowerment to express ideas and opinions while respecting and thus improving social relationships. The present study analysed assertiveness as a human right through an interdisciplinary focus. We used mixed methods, the hermeneutic, to interpret assertiveness through a legal lens—a questionnaire assessed knowledge and appropriation of assertive rights, self-regard, legal socialisation, and assertiveness. Qualitative data were analysed through content analysis and quantitative through structural equation modelling. Our research showed that assertiveness is not established in the Constitution of Mexico; however, other coded rights could align with the construct. In line with our legal analysis, most participants reported not being familiar with assertive rights. Our data suggest that the first step for using assertive rights is knowledge of these rights, which may become competencies for an effective petition for their rights.