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Three aspects of social validity were evaluated in a program using videotaped peer modeling to teach job-related social skills to adults with mental retardation. Social validity of training objectives was addressed through a literature search and interviews with local professionals, who identified the most relevant training objectives. Social validity of training procedures was evaluated by trainers, who rated the procedures for ease of use and appropriateness Social validity of training outcomes was addressed by three judges. Results indicated that most clients enjoyed the videotapes and participated in the discussions that followed. The judges rated the clients'posttraining performances in the job-related social skills as improved over pretraining. It is suggested that criteria for evaluating outcome studies in social work practice include measures of social validity.

Social workers can use pharmacological knowledge in collaboration with physicians to treat individuals who suffer from panic disorder and panic disorder with agoraphobia. An overview of research and clinical findings is provided on the pharmacological treatment of panic disorder, including information about types of appropriate medication and their dosages, efficacy, side effects, and assessment of medication effects. Recent developments in the treatment of panic disorder are presented that favor the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) over other medications because of their efficacy and less adverse side effects. Further controlled research is required to determine the long-term effects of SSRIs and to confirm their superiority over benzodiazepines (BZDs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibi tors (MAOIs) The use of alternative treatments, including cognitive behavior therapy, alone or m conjunction with psychotropic medications in treating panic disorder, is also discussed.