Grand Valley State University

This study examines the effects of social skills training on a group of first-time adjudicated male offenders from the juvenile justice system. Three types of groups were used to evaluate the effects of such programs on behavioral change. These groups included youth who received: 1) social skills training with parents or guardians; 2) social skills training without parents or guardians; 3) no skills training. Differences in the scales and subscales scores from the Jesness Inventory standardized test were evaluated and analyzed in conjunction with the type of offenses (status, misdemeanor, and felony) for the three groups. This exploratory study yielded some recommendations for further research and suggests specific program modifications that can assist those who contemplate the administration of such training for youth