Adaptation Process of Social Cognition and Interaction Training (SCIT) in an Indian Context for Persons with Schizophrenia.

Abstract

Interventions aimed at enhancing social cognition deficits in individuals with schizophrenia are globally supported by evidence demonstrating improvements in various functional outcomes. The Social Cognition and Interaction Training (SCIT) intervention was adapted for use in the Indian context for individuals with schizophrenia using the Reporting Cultural Adaptation in Psychological Trials (RECAPT) guidelines, informed by expert consultations. This included contextually relevant changes in the resource materials (print, photographs, and video) and the development of additional resources. Changes in the intervention delivery process included the use of individual sessions with adjunctive group sessions. Initial feasibility was assessed via a pilot tryout of the adapted SCIT on three persons diagnosed with schizophrenia. This informed additional changes for future applications of the adapted SCIT, such as structured involvement of family members as practice partners and modifications in the intervention delivery format. Content validation process for the final adapted intervention modules was carried out by four mental health practitioners. The experiences, challenges, and decision-making process involved in the adaptation are outlined, along with implications for future research and contextually tailored intervention strategies.