Social Skills Assessment and Intervention

Abstract

We present a “practitioner's guide” to social skills assessment and intervention with students attending public schools. Important characteristics of assessment instruments are discussed, including psychometric properties and strategies applicable to school settings. We then review several social skills assessment protocols and rating scales that can be used efficiently by school psychologists, teachers, and other related professionals. The process of assessment-derived intervention planning is covered, with a description of social skills curricula/training programs and presentation of an illustrative case study. We conclude with a summary of salient issues and recommendations to facilitate the routine assessment and teaching of social skills by school practitioners.

Key Words:

• Social skills
• assessment
• intervention
• public schools
• rating scales