Program effectiveness of a parent-child group social skills program

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a social skills group program using pre-post testing and focus groups. Program effectiveness measurement was illustrated using data collected from a pilot parent-child social skills building group program, Raising Positive Thinkers . The group involved four parent-child dyads and ran for three consecutive weeks, meeting once a week for 90 minutes to introduce, practice and review social skills learned. Quantitative data was collected via pre and post questionnaire using the Social Skills Improvement System rating scale (SSIS). Qualitative data was collected from a focus group at the end of the program. Parent perceptions of the social skills group indicated the group was overall a beneficial experience for themselves and their children. The pre and post questionnaire data did not yield significant findings, whereas the focus group gave beneficial information for future replications of the program. The use of both questionnaires and focus group was constructive in giving a comprehensive analysis of the effectiveness of the program. Parent input was included for future replications of the program