Social Skills Training Interventions: A Promising Approach for Children Treated for Brain Tumors

As a result of their disease, its treatment, and late effects, children treated for brain tumors are at risk for developing problems in social functioning in terms of social competence and peer acceptance, poor social skills, and social isolation. Despite research suggesting the effectiveness of social skills training interventions in improving social competence, the effectiveness of social skills training interventions remains understudied in this population. Preliminary studies of social skills training interventions with children treated for brain tumors are described. Suggestions for future research, in particular emphasizing the importance of interventions that impact peer relationships and social reputation, are provided.