Tackling Social Cognition in XXXX : A Randomized Feasibility Trial.

@entity1 @entity73 @entity6661 @entity161
BACKGROUND: Social cognition difficulties in @entity161 are seen as a barrier to recovery. Intervention tackling problems in this domain have the potential to facilitate functioning and recovery. @entity73 ( @entity73 ) is a manual-based psychological therapy designed to improve social functioning in @entity161 . AIMS: The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a modified version of @entity73 for inpatient forensic wards. The potential benefits of the intervention were also assessed. METHOD: This study is a randomized single blind controlled design, with @entity1 randomized to receive @entity73 (N = 21) or treatment as usual (TAU; N = 15). @entity73 consisted of 8-week therapy sessions twice per week. @entity1 were assessed at week 0 and one week after the intervention on measures of social cognition. Feasibility was assessed through group attendance and @entity6661 . @entity1 acceptability and outcome was evaluated through post-group satisfaction and achievement of social goals. RESULTS: The intervention was well received by all @entity1 and the majority reported their confidence improved. The @entity73 group showed a significant improvement in facial affect recognition compared to TAU. Almost all @entity1 agreed they had achieved their social goal as a result of the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible to deliver @entity73 in a forensic ward setting; however, some adaptation to the protocol may need to be considered in order to accommodate for the reduced social contact within forensic wards. @entity73 in real life may be necessary to achieve benefits to theory of mind and attributional style.
