The Research Behind PEERS® PROGRAM
Why Choose PEERS®? Exploring the Research
The PEERS® program is backed by robust research, including multiple randomised controlled trials, with evidence of sustained benefits 1–5 years post-treatment.
Proven Outcomes After the 16-Week Program:
- Improved Social Skills: Caregivers reported enhanced cooperative social behaviour with peers and family members, increased social assertiveness, and better self-control.
- Enhanced Social Responsiveness: Participants demonstrated significant growth in receptive and expressive social communication skills, leading to stronger social connections.
- Increased Empathy: By improving social cognitive skills, participants became better at understanding others' mental and emotional states, fostering more meaningful interactions.
- Reduced Loneliness: Participants experienced less loneliness due to increased involvement in social activities, hobbies, and the development of friendships.
- Greater Social Invitations: Caregivers noted a marked increase in invitations to social gatherings from non-PEERS® friends, reflecting genuine peer acceptance.
(Baron-Cohen & Wheelwright, 2004; Laugeson, Gantman, Kapp, Orenski, & Ellingsen, 2015)
What Does It Mean to Be Evidence-Based?
To earn the label "evidence-based," the PEERS® program underwent extensive clinical trials and research, providing substantial data to support its effectiveness in improving social and emotional outcomes.
Curious whether learning social skills online is as effective as face-to-face?
Dr. Laugeson, the creator of the PEERS program, has conducted research comparing online and in-person delivery of the program. The findings show that the online format is equally effective as the face-to-face approach.
PEERS utilises the Socratic teaching method, which encourages critical thinking, perspective-taking, and active engagement. Participants practice essential skills in a supportive “safe space” during sessions, then apply them in real-life situations.
What makes PEERS unique?
PEERS isn’t a social group for casual interaction—it’s a structured environment where participants learn and practice the skills needed to build connections in their broader communities.
Benefits of the online PEERS program include:
- Attend from anywhere, even while traveling or unwell.
- A safe and comfortable space for anxious participants to build confidence.
- Stay in your comfort zone—at home with pets or familiar surroundings.
- Greater anonymity, reducing anxiety about encountering someone you know.
- Save time with no travel commitments, making it easier to attend 2 sessions per week for 14 weeks.
With these advantages, the online PEERS program offers a flexible and effective way to learn and practice essential social skills.