A test of the relative effectiveness of a systematic desensitization program and an interpersonal skills training program with date anxious subjects

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two behavioral techniques (systematic desensitization and a skills training program) in reducing dating anxiety and in improving interpersonal skills. Thirty-five college students were randomly assigned to the two treatment groups or a minimal contact control group. Self-report and behavioral indicators of anxiety and skill were collected at a posttreatment session and at a six month follow-up session. The minimal contact control group did not demonstrate any improvement on the dependent measures. Both treatment groups demonstrated significant decreases on the anxiety indicators over testing occasions and did not differ from each other significantly. Only the skills training group demonstrated significant improvement on the interpersonal skills indicator.