Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2026
06:41
Assessment of Social Interaction Behaviors
Published on: February 25, 2011
[Evaluation of a program designed to develop social competence in kindergarten children]
J Bélanger1, F Bowen, N Rondeau
1Université de Montréal. jbelange@santepub-mtl.qc.ca
Summary
This study found a social competence program improved kindergarteners' self-esteem and conflict resolution. However, it did not significantly impact pro-sociality or reduce social withdrawal, with varied effects on aggression.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Social-Emotional Learning
Background:
- Social competence is crucial for kindergarteners' development.
- Early intervention programs can foster social-emotional skills.
- Evaluating program effectiveness is essential for educational practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the implementation and impact of a social competence program for kindergarten children.
- To assess changes in self-esteem, conflict resolution, pro-sociality, social withdrawal, and aggression.
- To explore teachers' perspectives on program usability and adaptation.
Main Methods:
- Experimental design with 10 intervention classrooms (n=165) and 5 control classrooms (n=74).
- Program focused on promoting social competence in kindergarteners.
- Data collected on children's social-emotional skills and teacher feedback on program implementation.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in self-esteem and conflict resolution skills observed in the intervention group.
- No significant changes noted in pro-sociality or social withdrawal.
- An unexpected finding regarding boys' aggression was documented.
- Teachers reported program activities were easy to implement and adapt, with diverse utilization.
Conclusions:
- The program effectively enhanced specific social-emotional skills like self-esteem and conflict resolution.
- The program's impact on pro-sociality, social withdrawal, and aggression requires further investigation.
- Teacher engagement and program adaptation influence children's outcomes.
- Further research is needed to refine social competence programs for preschoolers.
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