Effects of Social Stories in Preadolescents: A Psychoeducational Perspective
Keywords:
Social Stories, Preadolescent Development, Emotional Regulation, Socio-Emotional Competence, Narrative Engagement, Psychoeducational InterventionsAbstract
Social stories have emerged as an increasingly valuable psychoeducational tool for enhancing emotional regulation, social understanding, and adaptive behavior among preadolescents. This developmental stage—marked by rapid cognitive, emotional, and social transitions—requires structured, empathetic, and developmentally sensitive interventions. Drawing upon the foundational work of Formisano et al. (2025) on socio-emotional development, grief processing, emotional regulation, and neuroscientific approaches to emotions, along with broader international research, this study critically examines the effects of social stories on preadolescents’ socio-emotional competence. Findings from the reviewed literature demonstrate significant improvements in empathy, conflict resolution, emotional expression, and behavioral self-regulation. The article also explores the mechanisms through which social stories influence cognitive processing, the role of narrative engagement, and implications for classroom practice. Recommendations for educators, counselors, and school psychologists are presented.
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