Data were collected from 213 interviewees to determine their perceptions of how the television program, "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," serves the affective needs of handicapped children and of professionals who work with them. The interviews included questions about items used to describe the actual and an ideal program, actual and ideal professional roles, personal enjoyment, social desirability, and enjoyment of nonverbal images. The program was found to function closely to the ideals of professionals in its emphasis on dealing with children as unique individuals, appreciating individual differences, and assisting children to develop a sense of self-worth, independence and enjoyment of new ways of learning. (LH)