The empirical base for the implementation of social skills training with maltreated children

Empirical research on the psychosocial sequelae of child maltreatment has identified numerous and severe social skills deficits in abused and neglected children that negatively affect their healthy adjustment. Social skills training programs have been successful in helping adults and nonmaltreated children improve their skills in interpersonal communication, problem solving, self-control, assertiveness, and stress management. Such training appears promising for intervention with maltreated children. Guidelines and rationales are presented for developing social skills training programs specifically focused on the developmental and situational needs of abused and neglected children.