Some courses
conducted SM programs briefly (low intensity), whereas others conducted
the programs in depth by spending entire semester (high intensity). Few studies
have examined the effectiveness of low-intensity SM programs using a
quasiexperimental design. Payne and Woudenberg (1978) evaluated an SM
skills training program as a part of an “Adjustment Psychology” course (N =
103). Results indicated that with the exception of “nervous habits” (e.g., nailbiting,
tic-like behavior), the process of completing the SM project was economical
and equally as effective as individual or group treatment. Similarly,
Hamilton (1980) investigated the efficacy of an SM program via a college
course titled, “Psychological Principles of Human Relations.” Half of the
course consisted of self-control theories and principles, and the other half
focused on current issues in personal adjustment.