This article examines interpersonal cognitive problem-solving (ICPS) skills. Based on more than 20 years of research on specific ICPS skills, intervention methods were developed to test the hypothesis that behavior can be modified by focusing on thinking processes rather than the behaviors themselves. The ICPS skills relate to high-risk behaviors that may develop into serious problems such as violence and substance abuse. This approach to childrearing deals with social cognition and social adjustment. Its central theme is that certain interpersonal cognitive thinking skills play a crucial role in the social adjustment of both parent and child; thus it has particular relevance for the primary prevention of later, more serious problems. This bulletin describes intervention methods, their importance, and their impact as evaluated through research studies. Implementation and policy issues relevant to training and information dissemination are explored. A list of resources for learning more about ICPS is provided. (Contains 51 references.) (MKA)