Schizophrenia, a severe and disabling brain disorder, is affecting 1 % of the general population.1 Social dys-function is a hallmark of schizophrenia and a major constituent of burden on the individual and their fami-ly.2 Social dysfunction is characterised by deficits in general social functioning and several social skills. So-cial skills are the specific abilities that enable an indi-vidual to perform a task competently in social situa-tions.3
People with schizophrenia have marked deficits in social skills because either they have never learnt them or they have lost them in the course of a severe mental illness (SMI). The deficits in core social skills (i.e. con-versational, interpersonal relationship and assertiveness) present in various forms, such as: lack of spontaneity or clarity in conversation and inappropriate style of social interaction and relationship with others. Individuals with a marked deficit in social skills find it difficult to establish and maintain social relationships and fulfill ascribed social roles. They may also find it difficult to meet their needs, to adjust and live a stable social life in the community