This article suggests ways for group-home employees to support residents in the active expression of their faith while protecting the freedom of others who choose not to be involved in religious activities. The 1992 American Association on Mental Retardation definition of mental retardation is seen as assuming the capability for choice. (Author/DB)

Forms of guardianship for U.S. individuals with disabilities are reviewed, and Swedish legal and public policy innovations that replace guardianship with personal support services, such as mentors and personal assistants, are considered. The impact of Sweden's reforms on autonomy, independence, and integration is addressed. (Author/SW)

This study assessed the validity and reliability of a modified, self-report version of the Autonomous Functioning Checklist for use with adults with mental retardation. Adolescents and adults (n=409) with mental retardation were interviewed. Results generally supported the instrument's validity and reliability and previous studies' findings that…

Challenges the assertion that education is necessarily political. Suggests that discussion of education often focuses on its trappings, rather than the overall subject. Argues that education neither produces good workers and enterprising citizens nor autonomous, free thinking students who love learning. Concludes that such goals are best achieved…

Treats the suitability of Level 2, a program designed to teach French as a Foreign Language. The goal of the program is learner autonomy. The use of authentic materials and an emphasis on culture are recommended. (AG)

Examined racial differences in composition of care-related decision-making networks. Data from 244 family caregivers revealed that African Americans were significantly less likely to identify older care recipient as involved or as key decision maker when compared to whites. Older individuals' physical and mental impairments were also important…

Examined the nature and degree of autonomous behavior among groups of elementary students from Montessori schools and from traditional public schools. Results indicated that Montessori students demonstrated higher levels of independence, initiative, and self-regulation than students from traditional schools. (PAM)

This hypothetical letter to a junior high school student with visual impairments stresses the child's abilities and possibilities rather than limitations as well as the importance of the child's individual development and assumption of personal responsibility. The letter is primarily intended to help teachers think about how to best help such…

A study of 20 cooperative education students and 20 controls found that participation in cooperative work experience affects students' development of autonomy, sense of purpose (appropriate education plans and mature career and lifestyle plans), and mature interpersonal relationships. (SK)

Fifty unemployed men completed measures of depressive symptomatology, sociotropic or autonomous motivation, social support, and activity. Found significant interactions between autonomy and activity but not between sociotropy and social support. Other findings suggest that psychological impact of unemployment is moderated by complex interactions…

Interviews with 14 middle-class women aged 59-85 uncovered contradictions between their need for support and security and desire to be independent and self-sufficient. Low expectations of public services and a sense of marginality in their families exacerbated the conflict. Ways to help elderly women shape supportive environments were proposed.…

Examines ethical considerations regarding advocacy and social action in atmosphere of uncertainty. Considers use of discretion and protection and defense of fundamental human rights in absence of organized, informed constituency. Examines informed consent and client's best interest when neither individual not collective group has autonomy through…

Identifies fundamental principles of psychology to explain how the self begins and develops over the life span. The influences that contribute to the creation of false and true selves in gifted children are discussed and strategies for promoting the true self of gifted children are offered. (Author/DB)

Considers the tension between shared, constitutive values and the premises of liberal inclusiveness in school communities. Evaluates three candidates for school-community values (comprehensive doctrines, caring, and democracy). Concludes that constitutive values are inconsistent with liberal inclusiveness. Advocates a vaguer, thicker middle ground…

Defines the concept of self-determination and discusses the importance of family involvement in affecting the development and expression of self-determination in adolescents with autism and other developmental disabilities. Strategies to promote and support parental involvement in self-determination instruction are discussed. (Author/CR)