TEACHING SOCIAL SEXUAL SKILLS TO MENTALLY-RETARDED ADULTS

  • 1 January 1984
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 89  (1) , 9-15
Abstract
A social/sexual skills training program for institutionalized mentally retarded adults was evaluated. The target behaviors involved a verbal action or reaction within 6 skill areas and were taught using a commercially available table game, Sorry, and a specially designed card deck. The program featured response-specific feedback, self-monitoring, individualized reinforcers and individualized performance criterion levels. A multiple baseline across 2 groups (N = 3 per group) revealed that there were increases in all skill areas. Generalization occurred in individual and group tests conducted by a retarded peer. The program appears to be an effective method of training social/sexual skills because it produces effects that generalize.