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Using the Evaluation of Social Interaction (ESI) with men in a low secure forensic unit

Statement of context This practice analysis explored the utility of the Evaluation of Social Interaction (ESI) in a 12-bedded male in-patient low secure forensic unit in England. The ESI is a standardised observational assessment of the person engaging in two social exchanges in naturalistic settings with real social partners. Critical reflection on practice The ESI helped identify specific social interaction skills that supported and skills that limited competent quality of social interaction. This enabled the men to better understand why they had social interaction problems, thus improve their motivation to engage in planning their own treatment and resulted in positive re-enforcement during the intervention. Implications for practice The ESI is suitable to use in forensic and mental health settings. Unexpected outcomes included a more productive team, a more settled atmosphere and reduced levels of frustration for both staff and clients.