THE IMPACT OF A SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM FOR ADOLESCENTS WITH BEHAVIOURAL DIFFICULTIES

Abstract

Behaviour problems in school present a major challenge for educators. Even though many programs exist to help students with behaviour problems develop social and school related skills, many studies report the difficulties associated with maintenance and transfer of the learned skills. This study evaluated the effects of a social skills training program, used in conjunction with a teacher assistance team, to support transfer and reinforcement in the classroom of the skills learned, on the social competence, behaviours and academic achievement of secondary school students with behavioural problems. Results show a self‐reported increase of assertion and empathy for the experimental group but teachers and parents perceived no differences in behaviour problems, academic skills or social skills. Factors that may contribute to enhance the efficacy of this type of intervention are discussed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Égide Royer

Égide Royer is a Professor in special education at Laval University in Québec City. He trains teachers on how to cope with behaviourally disordered students and does research in schools on intervention strategies. He is also Director of a research centre: C.R.I.R.E.S. (Centre de recherche et d'intervention sur la réussite scolaire ‐Research and Development Center for Educational Success.)

Nadia Desbiens

Nadia Desbiens is a Doctoral Candidate at the Faculty of Education at Laval University. Michel Gagnon and Nathalie Maltais are completing Masters degrees at the same faculty.

Isabelle Bitaudeau

Isabelle Bitaudeau is a Research Assistant at the C.R.I.R.E.S. She took part in the project management and participated in the evaluation.

Nathalie Maltais

Nadia Desbiens is a Doctoral Candidate at the Faculty of Education at Laval University. Michel Gagnon and Nathalie Maltais are completing Masters degrees at the same faculty.

Michel Gagnon

Nadia Desbiens is a Doctoral Candidate at the Faculty of Education at Laval University. Michel Gagnon and Nathalie Maltais are completing Masters degrees at the same faculty.