Social Skills and Problem‐Solving Training

Abstract

Abstract Social skills training is an approach to improving interpersonal functioning, based on the principles of social learning theory and the shaping of behavior through successive approximations to the desired goal. The primary emphasis in social skills training is on the clinician's use of modeling (demonstrating) specific social skills in simulated role plays, behavioral rehearsal of the targeted skills by the client in role plays, providing positive and corrective feedback following each role play to shape more effective skills, and developing home assignments for clients to practice the skills on their own. Problem‐solving training is teaching an approach to solving personal or interpersonal problems by following a standard sequence of steps: defining the problem, brainstorming solutions, evaluating the solutions, choosing the best solution(s), making a plan to implement the solution(s), and evaluating the success of the solution(s). Social skills and problem‐solving training are conducted together, and may be either the primary focus of group or individual intervention, or combined with other therapeutic techniques. These skills training methods have a strong evidence base supporting their effectiveness in a wide range of child, adolescent, and adult disorders, including developmental disorders (e.g., autism), schizophrenia, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse. These skills training approaches are also widely used in health and mental health prevention programs, improving relationships in the general population, and teaching employees effective interpersonal skills.