You're definitely not alone, believe me when I say that. I've had similar problems in the past, and on many occasions I'd make up for my lack of confidence with exaggerated aggression. Since then I've learned that being overly confrontational and lashing out at people is actually a sign of weakness. So the first thing to remember is that you don't want to swing to the opposite extreme when you're dealing with this problem.
There are many things I've done (and still do) to improve my assertiveness while keeping it within reasonable boundaries. Here are the main points.
a) realize that it's OK to get angry when you're attacked. Allowing yourself to feel and express anger (in a reasonable way) will clear up that mental blockage you're describing. It's a step up from feeling inferior. You need to make it very clear to the people around you that you don't like to be teased.
b) don't lash out at people. This will only create more problems for you. Instead, channel your anger in such a way that it increases mental clarity. If you can keep calm (and assertive) throughout an entire confrontation, then you've already won.
c) Improve other areas of your life (fitness, diet, lifestyle) by getting into personal development. By creating an all-round confidence in yourself, your ability to handle conflicts as they come at you will improve drastically.
Hope these ideas can be of service.
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