Social Skills and Mental Health (Psychology Revivals) Paperback / softback

by Peter Trower, Bridget Bryant, Michael Argyle

Part of the Psychology Revivals series

Paperback / softback

Out of stock

Description

In the 10 years or so prior to original publication in 1978 new theories and discoveries in the social sciences had given a scientific basis and new impetus to the development of social skills training as a form of therapy.

This book explores the progress made with this idea and gives practical guidance for therapists based on several yearsâ€™ experience with the technique. The book provides an account of the latest ideas at the time, about the analysis of social behaviour â€“ non-verbal communication, social skill, rules, analysis of situations, etc.

The different techniques for training and modifying social behaviour â€“ some old, some very new â€“ are described and compared, with detailed accounts. There is a careful critical review of follow-up studies of social skills training and other forms of social therapy on in-patients, out-patients and volunteer subjects. The second part of the book consists of a manual for assessing deficits and difficulties, and for training in ten main areas of social deficiency such as observation, listening, speaking, asserting and planning.

A rating scale, questionnaire and userâ€™s booklet of training exercises is included. The book should be of interest, not only to psychiatric professionals â€“ psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric nurses, occupational therapists â€“ but to many others, such as social and community workers, teachers, prison officers, and lay people who may be interested in forming self-help groups, either on their own or with professional guidance.