Some approaches to the study of social interaction are only concerned with observable behaviour, what interactors actually say and do, whereas others are also concerned with the cognitive processes that guide behaviour. Training can improve the interactors' ability to relate effectively with others. While the focus of most training interventions tends to be observable behaviour, the beliefs that interactors hold about themselves and others also deserve attention. These beliefs can influence both the way interactors interpret circumstances and the way in which they decide to behave in the light of these interpretations.

Interpersonal skills have a hierarchical structure which has provided a basis for a micro-skills approach to the development of interpersonal competence. This involves isolating and practising sub-skills and then synthesizing them into larger units of behaviour.

John Hayes