The Social Skills Improvement System (SSIS) is a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment and intervention tool designed to evaluate and improve social skills in individuals, particularly children and adolescents. Developed by Stephen N. Elliott and Frank M. Gresham, the SSIS is widely used by educators, psychologists, and other professionals to identify social skills deficits and develop targeted interventions to address these deficits.
Overview of the Social Skills Improvement System
The SSIS is based on a social skills framework that identifies seven key skill areas: communication, cooperation, assertion, responsibility, empathy, self-control, and engagement. These skill areas are further divided into 30 specific skills, which are assessed through a combination of rating scales, observations, and interviews. The SSIS provides a comprehensive picture of an individual’s social skills strengths and weaknesses, allowing professionals to develop targeted interventions to address specific skill deficits.
Components of the Social Skills Improvement System
The SSIS consists of three main components: the Social Skills Rating Scales, the Intervention Guide, and the Progress Monitoring Scales. The Social Skills Rating Scales are used to assess an individual’s social skills, while the Intervention Guide provides a framework for developing and implementing targeted interventions. The Progress Monitoring Scales are used to track an individual’s progress over time, allowing professionals to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and make data-driven decisions.
| Skill Area | Specific Skills |
|---|---|
| Communication | Listening, speaking, and following directions |
| Cooperation | Sharing, taking turns, and helping others |
| Assertion | Expressing feelings, needs, and wants |
| Responsibility | Completing tasks, following rules, and respecting others' property |
| Empathy | Understanding and appreciating others' feelings and perspectives |
| Self-control | Regulating emotions, managing stress, and controlling impulses |
| Engagement | Participating in activities, initiating interactions, and maintaining relationships |
Using the Social Skills Improvement System in Practice
The SSIS can be used in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, and community agencies. Professionals can use the SSIS to assess an individual’s social skills, develop targeted interventions, and track progress over time. The SSIS can also be used to identify social skills deficits in individuals with various disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and learning disabilities.
Best Practices for Implementing the Social Skills Improvement System
When implementing the SSIS, professionals should follow best practices, such as conducting comprehensive assessments, developing individualized intervention plans, and monitoring progress regularly. Professionals should also involve parents and caregivers in the assessment and intervention process, as they can provide valuable insights and support. Additionally, professionals should consider cultural and linguistic diversity when using the SSIS, as social skills can vary across cultures and languages.
- Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify social skills deficits
- Develop individualized intervention plans that address specific skill deficits
- Monitor progress regularly to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions
- Involve parents and caregivers in the assessment and intervention process
- Consider cultural and linguistic diversity when using the SSIS
What is the Social Skills Improvement System?
+The Social Skills Improvement System (SSIS) is a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment and intervention tool designed to evaluate and improve social skills in individuals, particularly children and adolescents.
What are the key components of the Social Skills Improvement System?
+The SSIS consists of three main components: the Social Skills Rating Scales, the Intervention Guide, and the Progress Monitoring Scales.
How can the Social Skills Improvement System be used in practice?
+The SSIS can be used in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, and community agencies, to assess an individual’s social skills, develop targeted interventions, and track progress over time.
