This study characterized individual advocacy performance differences of 3 individuals with developmental disabilities and 21 parents before and after participating in training programs called Partners in Policymaking. A three group taxonomy of advocate development (beginner, involved, and activist) is suggested. (DB)

A multimethod approach to program evaluation using quantitative methods, subjective assessments, and qualitative case study methods was used to evaluate a federally funded grant to improve quality of life for persons with developmental disabilities. Discussion focuses on the strengths and weaknesses of each evaluation method and impact of the…

This study examined whether raising a child with Down's syndrome affects a family (n=34) differently than does raising a child with another developmental disability (n=74). Results found that long-term adjustment to raising children with other disabilities was comparable to that of raising children with Down's syndrome. (CR)

An assessment of the needs of persons with developmental disabilities and their families was conducted via focus groups of individuals with disabilities, family members, and professionals (n=50). Concerns included preservice staff training, inservice staff training, and program delivery and development. Implications for quality assurance and…

A longitudinal study of 39 infants who engaged in stereotyped or self-injurious behaviors that were served in early intervention programs found these behaviors increased and declined over age more slowly than in typical babies. Head-banging seemed to be related to tantrums, whereas eye-poking developed early and seemed to be self-stimulatory.…

An adolescent with developmental disabilities who used a wheelchair was anecdotally observed to display little aggressive behavior when being pushed, but higher rates when movement was terminated. A functional analysis confirmed the elevated aggression and the child was taught to request movement through appropriate means. Aggression decreased…

In response to a paper on effects of risperidone on behavior in people with developmental disabilities, this paper raises the issue of how clinicians determine whether treatment should target the psychiatric disorder underlying the aberrant behavior (diagnosis-based treatment) or should target the aberrant behavior directly (behavior-based…

Thirty-six English language learners at-risk for developmental disabilities were observed for six days within 4 elementary schools and 26 classrooms. The most frequently taught subjects were math, reading, and language arts. English was the most frequently used language of instruction and students engaged in academic behaviors 44% of the time.…

Compared the levels of perceived stress on several dimensions of parenting in mothers and fathers of 159 children divided into 4 groups: conduct disorders, autistic, Down syndrome, and developmentally normal. Results showed that mothers and fathers reported similar levels of stress when parenting exceptional children, although their patterns of…

Surveys current research on causes and treatment of autism. Identifies features of autism and outlines causal theories and related treatments. Analyzes problems with the different approaches to causes of autism. Suggests the multiplicity of approaches implies lack of success in any one area. Contends behavior modification provides best results and…

It is proposed that the identification and description of students with communication problems requires assessments in four domains: (1) linguistic ability; (2) cognitive ability; (3) social skill; and (4) pragmatic competence. Evidence from research on individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disorders is presented. (SLD)

Described is a capstone experience for undergraduate biomedical engineering students in which student teams work with children and adults with cerebral palsy to produce devices that make their lives easier or more enjoyable. The collaborative approach, benefits to the clients, and evaluation of the projects are discussed. (CW)

Presented are the rationale and varied possibilities for collaboration between medical personnel and educators. A model for such collaboration is the Child Development Project at Boston City Hospital (Massachusetts), a project which provides intervention services for children, from birth to 5 years, with developmental delays and disturbances.…

Fifty states and five territories were surveyed to determine implementation of the federal Program for Infants and Toddlers with Handicaps, established through Public Law 99-457. Questions focused on the states' interagency coordinating councils, definitions of developmental delay, and activities related to the required minimal components of…

The article reviews the literature concerning family influences on early childhood development. Implications of this literature for intervention planning with high risk children and families are suggested. Topics covered include the early parent-child relationship, disciplinary strategies, stimulation, parental instruction and expectations, the…