The issue of intensity of services for children in early intervention is a complex one and its determination can be based on many factors, some of which may not be objective; consequently there may be disparities in services provided. Although the Individual with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, Public Law 108-446 (IDEA, 2004) mandates the family-centered approach to service delivery, it does not specifically stipulate how this approach is to be implemented when determining the intensity of, services for children in early intervention. Family participation, as one of the principles of family centered care, is an integral element of the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) decision making process. However, in spite of the fact that family participation in early intervention (EI) is mandated, service delivery decisions by law are to be based on meeting the needs of the child and family and not on the level of parent and primary caregiver (hereafter referred to as parent) participation. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]