Parents of 23 Alberta, Canada, children with mild to severe mental handicaps were asked to describe their parenting experiences. Parental concerns were analyzed in terms of severity of the handicapping condition and dealt with education and social integration, emotional stresses, future prospects, impact on the family, support systems, and…

Described are discrepancies among the needs of students with severe disabilities, the independent living objectives set for them, and the realities of community care. Developing self-help and decision-making skills is too taxing and overwhelming for some, and community support is insufficient to develop a satisfactory quality of independent…

The movements of 2,271 residents of public and community residential facilities for the developmentally disabled were analyzed. In a 1-year period, 8.5 percent of the residents moved, and most moves featured greater integration into the community. Among moved subjects, 3 dimensions accounted for 62 percent of placement status variance: ability,…

Argues for teaching program which more effectively integrates and promotes understanding of foreign pupils. Reflects upon a Berlin (West Germany) study, Integration of Foreign Pupils in the Comprehensive School, conducted between 1982 and 1986 involving the integration of Turkish school children. Discusses the problems of integration, the role of…

Observations of interactions in a day care center serving deaf and hearing children focused on eight children (either deaf or hearing and with either deaf or hearing parents). Although deaf and hearing children interacted with those of other hearing status, there was a stronger tendency to initiate communication with same hearing status peers.…

This article explores the effects of the integration movement on the placement of preschoolers with disabilities and describes the effects of integration and developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) methodology on assessment and instructional practices. The paper concludes that programs following the DAP guidelines can be adapted to promote…

This study explored psychosocial diversity of two groups of gifted adolescents: those who feel different from their nongifted peers (n=379), and those who do not (n=94). Comparisons between groups on demographic variables, perceptions of self and other students, and school behavior showed the latter group manifesting greater desire for social…

This paper examines the basic tenets of the 1968 blueprint for change offered by Lloyd Dunn, which outlined a progressive plan to improve special education for students labeled as slow learners and educable mentally retarded. Current extensions of the blueprint are offered along with a rationale for including those students with extensive support…

Six dimensions of consultative services in early intervention for young children with disabilities are described: location, presence of other children, adult-child initiations, goal functionality, context of intervention, and consultant's role. A continuum of consultative models from totally segregated to fully integrated is presented, and data on…

Three peer caregivers with moderate mental retardation worked to improve the occupation level of a passive man with profound mental retardation. The peer caregivers carried out meaningful activities with the trainee for 15-minute periods. The trainee received social reinforcement; the caregivers received tangible reinforcement. Use of multiple…

A survey of 166 high school students without disabilities in Washington yielded 7 categories of perceived positive outcomes of integration experiences, such as increased responsiveness to needs of others, increased appreciation of human diversity, and development of personal values. More positive outcomes were associated with more contact,…

Two children with autism, aged 10, were exposed to peer-implemented pivotal response training (PRT). Typical peers implemented PRT strategies by modeling, role playing, and didactic instruction. Both children with autism maintained prolonged interactions with the peer, initiated play and conversations, and increased engagement in language and…

Using a technical assistance model, the New England Center Pilot Project provides training and consultation to programs serving young children who are deaf-blind in inclusive education settings (preschool, kindergarten, and first grade). This article discusses the model's four major components, salient issues, and recommendations to enhance…

Examines the characteristics of landed immigrants (permanent settlers) from Asia, and explores their settlement, adaptation, and integration experience in Canada. It suggests that access to Canadian land does not always translate into equal opportunity in the economy and society, but notes that Canada may be more successful at assimilating Asian…

Investigated the influence of loss of face and acculturation on the group psychotherapy expectations of Asian American students (n=134). Results showed acculturation was a significant predictor of positive attitudes toward group counseling whereas loss of face was not. Argues that not all Asian Americans have negative orientations toward group…