1. HOW TO SAY NO

2. Refusal Skills
Communication strategies that can help you say no when you are urged to take part in behaviors that are unsafe or unhealthful, or that go against your values are also known as refusal skills.

3. SAYING NO CAN BE DIFFICULT
When is it hard to say, “NO”?
Saying no to someone you care about
Saying no to someone of authority
You feel like there may be a loss or you might miss out
Relate to students- explain when you have to say no and it is difficult. It is a skill that everyone needs or you may find yourself in situations you regret.

4. Refusal Strategies SAY NO IN A FIRM VOICE
Do this calmly and clearly. Use expressions such as “I’d rather not.”
Prompt students to give examples of ways they could say No. Be sure to stress that No’s should not be ambiguous

5. Refusal Strategies EXPLAIN WHY
State your feelings. Tell the other person that the suggested activity or behavior goes against your values or beliefs.
Be as truthful as possible. If you get caught in a lie you may find yourself losing your excuse and failing to refuse.

6. Refusal Strategies SUGGEST ALTERNATIVES
Propose a safe, healthful activity to do instead.
Explain that this will allow the person you are refusing to save face. It can diffuse a situation and help the person whose idea you are rejecting move on.

7. Refusal Strategies USE APPROPRIATE BODY LANGUAGE
Make it clear that you don’t intend to back down from your position. Look directly into the other person’s eyes
This should be used through out the sequence. Explain the difference between passive, assertive, and aggressive

8. Refusal Strategies LEAVE IF NECESSARY
If the other person continues to pressure you, or simply won’t take no for an answer, just walk away
Explain that these steps are progressive. If you say no and person excepts it as that, there is no need to move to a further step. If they push, give them a explanation. If the continue to push offer an alternative. If they push beyond that leave and consider whether this person has your best interest at heart and whether they should be considered a friend.