Howard's mother and Bernadette demonstrate their different styles of communication. Howard's mother speaks in an aggressive manner, while Bernadette is more commonly assertive.

Dusty is disrespected by his step-daughter, but instead of communicating aggressively, like his dad taught him, Dusty asserted his love for the whole family for the first time.

Coach Boone has his first team meeting at the start of the football season, and uses his assertiveness to scare them into subordination.

Olive decides to make a statement to everyone talking about her reputation by symbolizing Hester Prynne with a scarlet "A" on her clothes.

The girls participate in a four-way call, leaving them feeling betrayed by each other after hearing what their "friends" are saying about them.