Background. The Social Profile evaluates the social participation levels of children in activity groups and is based on the concepts of group social participation, interaction behavioural skills, and process factors. The 7 factors for each of the group levels in the Social Profile are cooperation, norms, roles, communication, activity behaviour, power and attraction. Purpose. This study evaluates the validity and reliability of the Social Profile. Method. A panel of eleven judges examined the content of the Social Profile and their recommendations were incorporated. Two occupational therapy observers measured group skills in 15 preschool groups of typically developing children. Results. Cluster analysis of the study data indicated distinctions between skill clusters of social participation levels. Factor analysis confirmed these theoretical and clinical field component factors as distinct behaviours. Clinical Implications. The Social Profile has the potential to be used with a wide range of children to assess and treat their social skill deficits. Occupational therapy students and clinicians can use the assessment for training and to expand their observational abilities for evaluating social skills.
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