Harnessing environmental contingencies to enhance social skills: The case of Mike J.

Abstract

This article presents a clinical case conceptualization and possible treatment plan for a 13-year-old Caucasian male currently residing at the Boys Town treatment facility. The youngster's presenting problems are conceptualized using a behavioral/cognitive-behavioral model. An assessment plan employing functional analyses of behavior, as well as data gathered from rating scales and self-report instruments, is recommended to evaluate the presence and nature of the youth's behavior problems (social-skills deficits, potential attentional problems, and anxiety). An intervention based on a contextualized framework of social-skills assessment, treatment, and generalization is suggested, and adjunctive interventions for unique features of the case are offered. Potential problems of comorbidity and failure to generalize are discussed, and realistic expectations for outcome addressed.