The buddy system: a method for generalized reduction of inappropriate interpersonal behaviour of retarded-psychiatric patients.

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.