Dissemination and adoption of social skills training: Social validation of an evidence-based treatment for the mentally disabled

Abstract

Background: The UCLA modules for training social and independent living skills (SILS) were developed to teach persons with severe mental illness skills for disease management, affiliative relationships, and instrumental role functioning. Eight modules have been produced and evaluated in controlled studies.

Aims: To review the adoption of the modules by practitioners, and identify procedures for dissemination.

Method: Practitioner and program experiences with the modules were inventoried to identify factors associated with adoption and utility. Secondary dissemination was evaluated in agencies that disseminated the modules beyond their own patients by training other professionals. Determination was made of cultural adaptation of modules for use in various countries.

Results: The SILS modules have been widely implemented throughout the US, translated into 23 languages, and implemented in more than 30 countries. International studies document their crosscultural efficacy, effectiveness, and utility. Factors associated with successful adoption included the modules' user-friendliness, preparation and interpersonal strategies with the adopting agencies, and follow-up consultation.

Conclusion: International adoption and empirical evaluation of the SILS modules have established their external, social, and professional validity. Widespread utilization of the modules was facilitated by their utility in meeting the functional needs of patients participating in a range of existing clinical programs.

Keywords:

• Psychosocial techniques/treatments
• social skills training
• schizophrenia psychosocial rehabilitation
• dissemination and adoption of innovations