This analysis examines integration of people with developmental disabilities in terms of an ethnography which contrasts an old narrative based on segregation and a confined form of space and time with a new narrative of interdependence achieved through a cyclical form of space and time. This new narrative requires the accommodation of differences…

This article discusses problems inherent in the analysis of automatically reinforced behaviors, which are behaviors that are maintained by operant mechanisms independent of the social environment. Four classes of treatment that are compatible with automatic reinforcement are reviewed, including manipulations of establishing operations, sensory…

Effects of parental acceptance or rejection of a proposed aversive behavioral intervention for students with developmental disabilities on treatment acceptability ratings were investigated with 273 undergraduate and graduate students. Results suggest that parental acceptance or rejection of the proposed intervention significantly affected…

This paper reviews research describing developmentally typical and atypical repetitive motor movements of children with and without disabilities. It then reports findings of a study of nine preschool-aged children with developmental delay and atypical stereotypies. Predictors of repetitive movements included level of functioning, age, ambulation,…

This study of 78 mothers of mentally retarded children and adults found that respite care acts as a differential service that can enhance coping resources and is of most benefit to high self-esteem mothers of young developmentally disabled children, especially as a home-based model. (Author/JDD)

Refers to Lake Wobegon effect, Cannell's (1987) conclusion that all 50 states were above national average in performance on standardized achievement tests. Although commentary and research to date have focused exclusively on regular education, this article describes Lake Wobegon effect and its implications for assessment of exceptional children.…

The University of Georgia model curriculum to prepare students to work with mentally retarded older adults has six units: population overview, physiological issues, mental health issues, social support systems, service delivery networks, and legal/ethical issues. (SK)

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a staff training-and-management package on nutritional practices in two community-based group homes serving adults with developmental disabilities. Food storage, menu development, and meal preparation were covered. All staff behaviors increased after training and were maintained for up to one year.…

A national survey of 48 state coordinators evaluated use of the Medicaid Home and Community-Based Waiver to fund supported-employment services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Very low utilization was found, primarily due to limits on eligibility. Low reimbursement rates to provider agencies and disinterest of providers in using…

This article identifies three "waves" of the disability movement (the professional, parent, and self-advocacy waves) and applies them to issues of control and choice in the lives of people with developmental disabilities. It identifies issues related to the self-advocacy movement such as group identity and the long-term role for people who are not…

Examined the recreation activities of families that included children with developmental disabilities. Data from surveys and interviews indicated that the most popular and frequent forms of recreation reflected five categories: passive, play, physical, social, and entertainment/special events. Despite variations in family sociodemographic…

A study investigated the prevalence of carbamazepine- or oxcarbazepine-induced hyponatraemia and leucopenia in 334 Finnish individuals with developmental disabilities. Medication with these drugs resulted in significantly lower levels of serum sodium and counts of blood leucocytes. Because of difficulties in expressing their symptoms, this…

This paper examines the validity of Asperger syndrome as a condition apart from high-functioning autism. Potential differences between Asperger syndrome and autism is possible if both are strictly defined. The importance of genetic factors in Asperger syndrome is stressed. Research on the nosological validity of this condition and its relationship…

Sotos syndrome is characterized by high birth length, rapid bone growth, distinctive facial features, and possible verbal and motor delays. It is more common in males than females. Developmental deficits, specific learning problems, and speech/language delays may also occur. (DB)

The introduction to a special issue on happiness and people with mental retardation identifies seven verities about supports for happiness such as: many external factors do not correlate well with happiness; there are significant internal or personal factors that do relate to happiness; and there is a need for studies on happiness in people with…