Social skills training for schizophrenic individuals at risk for relapse

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.