The discussion traces the evolution of the concept of community-based care from a medically-oriented and administered model, to a psychologically-based rehabilitation paradigm, to the present emphasis on independent living. The current status of the "deinstitutionalizing" process in the United States and in Queensland (Australia) is surveyed.…

Significant issues from the normalization literature are appraised, misinterpretations discussed, and the normalization formulations' theoretical status considered. It is found that there are no comprehensive theoretical prepositions or substantial empirical evidence which offer serious challenges to normalization of the disabled. (Author/SW)

The history of residential care for persons with autism and other developmental disabilities is summarized for the past 200 years. Residential trends toward community integration in the past three decades are traced for autism in general and for the Murdoch Center in North Carolina. Possible negative side effects of current trends are identified.…

The article briefly reviews the history of deinstitutionalization and supports the development and use of a comprehensive evaluation process to evaluate the human and environmental factors that affect the potential for successful placement of handicapped persons in community-based residential facilities. (JW)

Data on the status of residential services for developmentally disabled persons are presented, and major concepts guiding changes in such services are identified. The role of natural (least restrictive) environments in helping disabled individuals to develop both social and personal living skills is highlighted. (CB)

A review of the history of special education delivery systems reveals a continuous trend toward progressive inclusion. Because it is now possible to serve all disabled students in neighborhood schools, remote specialized places such as the residential and day school are likely to be eliminated. (Author/DB)