Defend the need for increased focus on social competence as related to many individuals with learning problems. Briefly explain the significance of social skills training, and its benefits and limitations for students with learning problems

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

A socially competent individual can perceive situations in which social skills can be used, can discriminate which social skills are appropriate for a given situation, and can perform the appropriate social skills in such a way that there is a high likelihood of positive consequences. Given the low social competence of many individuals with learning problems and the extensive social demands of adult living, it is apparent why social competence receives so much attention. Social skills, a component of social competence, are discrete behaviors that are learned and performed in interactive situations, and they have been the focus of many intervention studies involving students with learning problems.
Interventions available: Social skills training, along with social skills curriculum
Benefits: Helps with conversation skills, friendship skills for different situations, problem-solving skills
Limitations: Research is needed to demonstrate that social skills training generalizes to the daily settings of employment, significant-other relationships, and recreation.
Interventions must be directly linked to the individual's social skills deficits.

[Students' responses will vary as they analyze the statement "Discipline and fighting rank among the top problems facing public schools"]