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The buddy system: A method for generalized reduction of inappropriate interpersonal behaviour of retarded‐psychiatric patients
Author(s) -
Matson Johnny L.,
Zeiss Robert A.
Publication year - 1979
Publication title -
british journal of social and clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.479
H-Index - 92
eISSN - 2044-8260
pISSN - 0007-1293
DOI - 10.1111/j.2044-8260.1979.tb00913.x
Subject(s) - generalization , psychology , reinforcement , interpersonal communication , social skills , reduction (mathematics) , interpersonal relationship , psychotherapist , developmental psychology , clinical psychology , social psychology , mathematical analysis , geometry , mathematics
Previous research has suggested a strategy for training social skills in chronic retarded‐psychotic patients, but has not demonstrated extensive generalization or maintenance of gains. This study varied the standard training procedure (e.g. Bellack et al ., 1976) in an attempt to improve generalization and maintenance. First, training involved instructions, modelling, role‐playing, and feedback with daily problem situations rather than preselected, pre‐written scenes. Second, each of the two patients treated served as a partner for the other; each patient monitored the other's behaviour and provided reinforcement, information and feedback to the ‘buddy’ (directly in the living environment). The procedure was effective in teaching appropriate social behaviours on the ward as well as in therapy sessions. Post‐checks, taken 6 weeks after the conclusion of the treatment, indicated that improvements were maintained.