SOCIAL SKILL DEFICITS IN MARITALLY VIOLENT MEN - INTERPRETING THE DATA USING A SOCIAL INFORMATION-PROCESSING MODEL

Many available therapy programs for maritally violent men (i. e., "skills-building" groups) are based upon the assumption that violent men are deficient in social skills. However, basic taxonomic research is needed to document and pinpoint these hypothesized skill deficits. McFall's (1982) social information-processing model is reviewed as a basis for conceptualizing the potential social skill deficits of maritally violent men. Using McFall's model as a guide, previous research examining the social skills of maritally violent men is reviewed. Suggestions for future research are offered.