Strengthening Interpersonal Communication Skills in Our Changing World

Program Description: The purpose is to teach individuals to consider problems carefully before responding to them and to consider alternatives to improve their social skills. Using four components of (IPS) Interpersonal Problem-Solving methods, youths will be able to maintain positive relationships, cope effectively with others, and solve their own problems. FAST is a strategy that is taught as a part of IPS program. This take home strategy has four parts. Step 1: F is for freeze and think, individuals are taught to identify the problem. Step 2: Alternatives, individuals are taught to consider possible ways of action for solving the problem. Step 3: Solution Evaluation, individuals are asked to prepare a solution or course of action for solving the problem that is safe and fair. The idea is to get individuals to consider solutions that will be effective in the long run. Step 4: Try It, Individuals are asked to rehearse and implement the solution