Applying social skills training in the context of vocational rehabilitation for people with schizophrenia

This paper describes a model for the conceptualization of social skills nec essary for the vocational success of people with schizophrenia. Based on th is model, a two-part measure was developed and validated to assess social s kills necessary for job search and tenure. The measure consists of a 10-ite m self-administered checklist and a role-play exercise. The self-administer ed checklist measures clients' perceived competence in handling work-relate d social situations. The role-play exercise assesses the social skills nece ssary for job acquisition and maintenance in two simulated situations (part icipating in a simulated job interview and requesting urgent leave from wor k). Furthermore, a social skills training module has been designed, which e nhances vocational outcome and fills a gap in the existing, commonly used m odules. A pilot study shows that the training module together with appropri ate professional support; afterward is effective in enhancing the social co mpetence and vocational outcomes of persons with schizophrenia Implications for cross-cultural applications are discussed.