Encouraging Connections: Integrating Expressive Art and Drama Into Therapeutic Social Skills Training With Adolescents

Abstract

The effective use of social skills has been positively associated with career success, romantic involvement, academic achievement, and mood. In response, counselors often integrate social skills training into counseling interventions with adolescents to encourage authentic and effective interactions with others. We illustrate some therapeutic social skills training interventions developed in community mental health and educational settings that feature the expressive aspects of art and drama using the cases of Sarah and a teen peer group. The activities included target basic prosocial behaviors, interpersonal communication, and problem-solving skills development. Necessary considerations when using these activities are noted.

KEYWORDS:

• social skills
• social competency
• creativity
• adolescents

The authors wish to acknowledge Varunee Faii Sangganjanavanich, PhD, for her guidance during the revision and restructuring of this manuscript.