Clinical Terms

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Skills for asking for what you need, setting limits, and keeping relationships healthy.

Interpersonal effectiveness is a set of skills, often associated with DBT, for navigating relationships well. It includes things like asking for what you need clearly, setting limits, saying no, and balancing your own goals with the values you have in your relationships.

This glossary is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have questions about your mental health, please speak with a licensed professional.