Social Psychology Research

Abstract Introduction: Social competence serves as a critical predictor of academic and social success, significantly influencing both current and future functioning. This study evaluated the efficacy of a Social Competence Group Training Program (SCGTP) in addressing insecure attachment and enhancing social skills among orphaned children. Methods: Employing a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design with three-month follow-up, the study sampled 30 institutionalized children in Sanandaj (2022-2023 academic year). Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on scoring one standard deviation above the mean on insecure attachment measures (Randolph Attachment Disorder Questionnaire, 2000) and one standard deviation below on social skills measures (Social Skills Rating System; Gresham & Elliott, 1990). Random assignment created experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. The experimental group received 16 weekly 45-minute SCGTP sessions, while the control group received no intervention. Data analysis utilized analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) in SPSS-23. Results: Findings demonstrated significant intervention effects, with SCGTP effectively reducing insecure attachment (p<0.001) and improving overall social skills (p<0.001), including specific components of cooperation, assertiveness, and self-control. Treatment gains were maintained at three-month follow-up. Conclusion: The SCGTP represents an effective intervention for ameliorating attachment insecurity and enhancing social competence in orphaned children. Implementation of such programs in institutional settings could substantially improve psychosocial outcomes for this vulnerable population.