Problematic peer relations, particularly when chronic, can have a tremendous impact on children's functioning and mental health. Decades of research indicate that peer rejection and victimization negatively affect adjustment and place children at increased risk of a myriad of later negative outcomes . In contrast, positive social relationships can serve as a protective factor promoting positive adjustment. Prevention and treatment research supports the use of social problem solving programs for improving children's peer relations, social behavior, and emotional adjustment. Research shows that multi-component intervention efforts that target both the school and home environments are more effective than focusing exclusively on either domain.
During this Phase I project, the prototype of the Interact! product was developed. The first Unit of the intervention, ‘Impulse Control’, was created including three core parts: (1) a Professional Manual with three accompanying sessions, (2) a sample of the home television special, and (3) a web-based resource center for parents, professionals, and children. Each session applies skill training through five different types of activities (i.e., video based, drama, art, writing, and experiential) in order to provide the professional with multi-modal training options. During Phase I, the prototype materials were tested for feasibility with child mental health professionals in the community, school-based mental health providers, and elementary school teachers. Skill acquisition and the product’s feasibility were also tested with parents and their 8-12 year old children. Feasibility of the product was successfully established and participants provided valuable feedback to inform the direction of future development.
Phase I findings were used to support an application for additional funding for further program development. The goal of that project is to develop and test a research-based universal social skills program that offers multi-skill-based curriculum specifically aimed at enhancing social skills.
