Refusal skills are communication strategies that can help a person say no when they are urged to take part in behaviors that are unsafe or unhealthful, or that go against their values. Developing strong refusal skills helps a person say no firmly, respectfully, and effectively to potentially harmful activities. Utilize the strategies below as a guideline for refusing someone.
Strategy 1: Say NO in a firm voice. Do this calmly and clearly. Use expressions such as “No, I’d rather not.”
Strategy 2: Explain why. State my feelings. Tell the other person what my values are and how it goes against them.
Strategy 3: Offer alternatives. Suggest a safe, healthful activity or activities to do instead of the one being offered.
Strategy 4: Stand your ground. Make it clear that I don’t intend to back down from my position.
Strategy 5: Leave if necessary. If the other person continues to pressure me, or won’t take “no” for an answer, I will simply walk away.
Refusal skills are communication strategies that can help a person say no when they are…
Refusal skills are communication strategies that can help a person say no when they are urged to take part in behaviors that are unsafe or unhealthful, or that go against their...
