This, the first article in the series, describes the rationale behind Argyle's social skills approach and lists the factors which probably influence social skills acquisition in childhood. Then, the special barriers imposed by handicap are discussed. Physical appearance, stigma and spoiled identity may all impede social development. The inability to execute smooth controlled movements interferes with non-verbal communications and speech difficulties are also frequently a problem. Finally, vulnerable children may have difficulty in learning social skills because of their impoverished environments and cognitive deficits.
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