Psychological education: A skill-oriented approach.

Tested the hypothesis that a 3-wk program based on a microcounseling paradigm would facilitate the acquisition of 3 specific problem-solving skills: (a) problem definition, (b) generation of alternatives, and (c) goal selection. 30 6th graders were randomly assigned either to a training group, to a group exposed to films and discussions related to each problem-solving skill, or to a no-treatment control group. Each group was tested immediately after training and 2 wks later. Results indicate that the microtraining group generated more alternatives than the other groups. Over time, all groups improved their problem-definition skills, while their ability to select appropriate goals decreased. Questions concerning the measures, issues in psychological education, and implications for program development are considered. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)