The textbook recommends that people learn to communicate assertively and lists 6 kinds of comments ...

Assertive communicators employ confirming messages, showing that they value other
people and their needs. Such messages include descriptive comments (which describe behavior
rather than character), problem-solution comments (indicating regard for others' feelings and a
desire for a win-win solution), equality comments (showing regard for others' thoughts and
judgments), spontaneous comments (without preset judgments), open comments (giving opinions
while showing openness to negotiation or change), and empathetic comments (showing concern
rather than indifference).