A STUDY OF SOCIAL SKILLS AMONG THE STUDENTS AT ELEMENTARY LEVEL

Abstract

The study explored the developed social skills among students at elementary level. A total of 772 Students were selected using multi stage cluster sampling in the district of Sialkot. Explored social skills included accepting criticism, showing respect, solving problems, accepting rights & responsibilities and tolerance of individual differences. A scale consisting of sixty nine items was developed and standardized through factor analysis. The instrument was checked and ensured for reliability measures using Cronbach’s Alpha (r = .75, p < .05) as well. Five factors were identified through exploratory factor analysis using principal component matrix measuring students’ level of social skills studying at elementary level. Results found students possessing the social skill of tolerance of individual difference being highest among all other types. Significant differences of social skills based on students’ gender were also observed. The study presents implications for policy makers and school authorities.