[Validity of a social skills training program for schizophrenic patients]

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Social Rehabilitation

Background:

• Social Independent Living Skills Modules developed in the 1980s demonstrated effectiveness.
• Current literature shows a decline in publications supporting the continuity of these social skills treatments.
• There is a need to re-evaluate the long-term efficacy of social skills interventions for schizophrenia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of the Social Skills Training Program (SSTP) in schizophrenic patients.
• To evaluate the impact of SSTP on negative symptoms, social behavior, and family burden.
• To determine the sustainability of treatment gains at a 6-month follow-up.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 57 schizophrenic patients participated in the Social Skills Training Program (SSTP).
• Evaluations used the Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale (PANSS), Social Behavior Assessment Schedule (SBAS), Social Interaction Self-Statements Test (SISST), and AI-F questionnaires.
• A 6-month follow-up assessment was conducted to monitor sustained improvements.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement was observed in negative symptoms of schizophrenia post-intervention.
• Patients demonstrated acquisition of new social roles and increased assertive behavior.
• Caregivers reported reduced emotional burden and stress levels.

Conclusions:

• The Social Skills Training Program (SSTP) effectively improves social functioning and reduces symptoms in schizophrenia patients.
• Observed benefits, including improved social roles and reduced family stress, were not sustained at 6 months post-intervention.
• Further research is needed to develop strategies for maintaining long-term gains from social skills training in schizophrenia.