A multiple-component strategy was investigated for aiding staff responsible for supervising production of 16 lower-functioning retarded clients (ages 20 to 53) on contract tasks in an institution-based sheltered workshop. Production performance increased during the production supervisory strategy with all 16 clients, with the range of increase…

Seven frequently used measures were examined by construct validation to improve measures. Results of this research indicate that there is a construct, termed "life satisfaction," shared by six of the seven measures and that no existing instrument best encompasses that construct. The construct is composed of two factors. (Author)

Why do some clients use institutional services, while others, with comparable impairment, use community-based services? Results indicated that the institutional group was more likely to have had previous service contact, to have less support from family members or friends, and to be more impaired. (Author)

The study was designed to determine the effects of increased stimulation on the hyperactive behavior of three profoundly retarded boys (mean age 14 years). The results of the study indicated that increased stimulation was effective in reducing the Ss' hyperactive behavior. (Author)

The failure of institutions to meet the needs of the severely disabled is pointed out, and an alternative to the traditional institution (the Letchworth Developmental Center, New York) is described. (SBH)

A survey of observed sexual behavior in an integrated unit of 30 severely retarded people aged 10 to 33 years showed that most behavior could be described as "appropriate." (Author)

Patterns of verbal interaction between staff and 29 residents (8-32 years old) in a training center for young mentally retarded persons were examined. Conversation type initiations from staff elicited more verbal responses from residents than other types of verbal stimuli. (Author)

Behaviors exhibited by five institutionalized severely retarded adults were formally observed while they were on and off medication. (Author/SBH)

This article describes the author's experience in employing the fishbowl technique in group therapy with inmates at El Reno Federal Reformatory. Results indicate that this technique can be employed successfully in a correctional environment. (Author/HMV)

This paper reflects on comments made by Samuel Gridley Howe in the 19th century and their continuing relevance to the state of institutionalization of individuals with mental retardation. The paper also cites Burton Blatt in his argument in favor of deinstitutionalization with all possible haste despite the inevitable challenges this will pose to…

Provides a list of traditional and nontraditional services and programs offered by Illinois public libraries to special populations, including educationally, culturally, and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups; ethnic minority groups; illiterates; the elderly; visually impaired; hearing impaired; emotionally disabled; and residents of state,…