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| POWER-Solving: A Systematic Approach to Teaching Social Skills |
| Saturday, May 29, 2010 |
| 8:00 AM–11:00 AM |
| Bowie C (Grand Hyatt) |
| Area: AUT/CBM; Domain: Applied Behavior Analysis |
| CE Instructor: Amy Lackey, Ph.D. |
| STEVEN GORDON (Behavior Therapy Associates), MICHAEL C. SELBST (Behavior Therapy Associates) |
| Description: Youth with social skills impairments include those with a range of DSM-IV diagnoses such as autism, asperger’s disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Social skill deficits have been associated with negative outcomes in future adjustment (e.g., educational achievement, interpersonal relationships, and psychological well-being). The scientific research on social skills training has generally found a weak effect with limitations as to the manner in which it has been implemented. POWER-Solving has been adapted from the social information processing literature related to improving problem solving skills. POWER-Solving is an acronym that addresses the core deficits seen in many of these children: Put the problem into words. Observe and measure feelings. What is the goal and how strongly is the goal desired? Explore and evaluate solutions. Review and reward.
POWER-Solving was implemented in a six week summer day program for children with social skills impairments known as HI-STEP (helping improve social-skills through evidence-based practices). Principles associated with applied behavior analysis (ABA) such as pinpointing target behaviors, functional behavior assessments, positive behavior supports, antecedent and consequence interventions ,and data collection are the “backbone” of the summer program. This workshop is at an intermediate level and assumes participants have prior knowledge of ABA principles. |
| Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the workshop the participant will be able to do the following:
1. identify the five steps associated with POWER-Solving,
2. identify the components of applying POWER-Solving social skills,
3. identify evidence-based strategies that contribute to success in social skills and problem-solving,
4. apply POWER-Solving to a specific social skill of their choosing. |
| Activities: Participants will view a PowerPoint presentation regarding the history and concepts of POWER-Solving. Videotapes of learners using POWER-Solving will also be viewed. Opportunity to apply behavioral strategies to teaching a social skill of their choosing will be provided. |
| Audience: Teachers, paraprofessionals, parents, and mental health professionals. |
| Content Area: Practice |
| Instruction Level: Intermediate |