SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING IN GROUPS WITH DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED ADULTS

This first of two social work studies with developmentally disabled ad ults evaluates the effectiveness of a social skills training package i n a replication of Bates (1980). Two groups of four trainees from voca tional training programs were organized at two sites, respectively (n = 8). Both groups received a la-session training package designed to i mprove social skills in four domains. A multiple baseline design acros s skills was used to evaluate effectiveness for individuals in each gr oup, with skills assessed using a 16-situation role-play test. As a re sult of training, participants improved in skill performance using the role-play test, but an in-vivo assessment showed little change. Thus if was concluded that the treatment package was effective in improving social skills, but not powerful enough to effect significant changes in other settings. Suggestions are given concerning treatment effectiv eness and implications for social work practice.