An evaluation of helping skills training: Effects on helpers' verbal responses

Evaluated the impact of a training program designed by S. J. Danish and A. L. Hauer (1973) for basic helping skills on 126 undergraduate and graduate students in a course on helping relationships. In particular, changes in the verbal responses used by human service workers in training were investigated. Using a rating system, based on the training program's goals, helpers' responses in simulated helping interviews were categorized. Responses which summarized the helpee's statements and which focused on feelings increased significantly over training. Leading responses, such as advice and closed questions, decreased significantly. Helpers talked less at posttesting. Similar changes were found for 2 consecutive sets of trainees. (26 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved).