This paper considers methodological issues related to the independent variable in early intervention research. Three standards are proposed: (1) use theory to guide research; (2) provide operational definitions of independent variables, quantify them, and describe how they relate to theory; and (3) measure treatment fidelity. Three levels of…

Using data describing entry into preschool among children with special needs, this paper introduces the fundamental statistical quantities of event occurrence--hazard and survivor functions. The paper discusses construction of formal statistical models of event occurrence over time, predictors that can be included in hazard models, and importance…

This study examined whether stress, family resources, and social support are correlates of the child abuse potential of mothers. Stress in family functioning appeared to be an important predictor of child abuse potential. Mothers of children with disabilities may be more inclined than other mothers to have elevated child abuse potential.…

Analysis of the Attitudes toward Disabled Persons scale administered to 89 British Columbia (Canada) students in grades 8 and 10 found that (1) female students had more positive attitudes than male students; and (2) grade level and degree of contact were not strong or consistent predictors of attitude. (Author/DB)

An attempt was made to determine predictors of service need, use, and outcome among chronically impaired adults and aged who were living in the community and using the home-based, long term care services of the Chronic Illness Center (CIC) of the Cuyahoga County Hospitals (Ohio). Randomly selected consumer service records (N=200) were coded for…

Investigation of determinants of 143 intermediate grade children's attitudes and behavioral intentions toward peers with physical disabilities found that the children's own attitudes toward inclusion of peers was the strongest predictor of behavioral intentions, though attitudes of teachers, principals, and parents were also significant…

Telephone interviews were conducted with parents of 1,601 children to investigate the utility of a statewide (Ohio), first-step screening procedure called Developmental Profile II. With developmental delay specified as the outcome variable, six independent variables representing environmental and biological determinants were identified.…