Two studies were conducted to evaluate the clinical efficacy of
intensive social skills training in medicated schizophrenic inpatients at
risk for relapse. In study 1, three patients were treated; two showed
reductions in psychopathology and rehospitalization and improved social
functioning 9 months following discharge. In study 2, social skills
training was compared with holistic health treatment in 28 patients. Both
groups showed reduced psychopathology 2 years after discharge; patients
treated with social skills training had better social functioning, spent
less time hospitalized, and had fewer symptomatic relapses. The results
support the utility of social skills training as a psychosocial treatment
for schizophrenia.Abstract Teaser