Empowering Adolescents with Social Skills Australia's PEERS Program

Case Study: Empowering Adolescents with Social Skills Australia's PEERS Program

Participants:

• Parent: Helen

• Teen Participant: Angus (17)

Background:

Helen, a dedicated mother, was concerned about her teen's social challenges. Angus had difficulty approaching people within their larger family and social groups for meaningful conversations. Additionally, his ability to communicate over the phone was limited, impacting interactions with peers. Helen sought assistance for Angus, leading them to Social Skills Australia and its PEERS Program.

Introducing Angus to the PEERS Program:

Angus was introduced to the PEERS Program, a structured social skills curriculum designed to help adolescents and young adults improve their social interactions, communication skills, and friendships. The program focuses on essential aspects of socialisation and encourages participants to become more confident and independent in their social lives. Angus participated in the virtual program, joining weekly skill development sessions online via Zoom.

Progress and Transformation:

Over the course of the program, Angus made remarkable progress in various areas. Helen noticed a significant increase in his confidence when approaching people in larger family and social gatherings. His ability to initiate and engage in meaningful conversations also improved significantly.

One of the most noticeable transformations was Angus’ ability to communicate over the phone. The once-challenging task became significantly easier for him. This improvement not only positively affected interactions with peers but also opened doors for personal and academic growth.

Furthermore, Angus became increasingly aware of body language and its impact on effective communication. This newfound awareness enabled him to read social cues and better understand the intentions of others, contributing to improved overall communication skills.

Parental Involvement and Support:

Helen actively participated in the parents' meetings as a part of the PEERS Program. These meetings provided valuable insights, feedback, and detailed information about the course content. Armed with accurate knowledge about what Angus was learning, Helen was better equipped to encourage and reinforce the lessons at home.

Positive Feedback and Leadership Development:

Leadership in social groups Angus attended provided positive feedback, noting significant improvements in his behavior and maturity. Angus’ newfound social skills, including the ability to initiate conversations and read social cues, allowed him to become a leader rather than a follower. This transformation not only improved relationships but also enhanced Angus’ self-esteem.

Life-Changing Impact:

The PEERS Program offered by Social Skills Australia proved to be life-changing for Angus. His growing confidence, improved communication skills, and leadership abilities not only enhanced Angus’ social life but also opened doors to new opportunities and personal growth. This case study underscores the effectiveness of the PEERS Program in empowering adolescents and young adults to develop essential social skills and thrive in various social settings.

To learn more about the PEERS Program and how it can benefit your adolescent, visit Social Skills Australia.