Friendship patterns and community integration of family care residents

Friendship patterns and community integration of mentally retarded persons living in family care homes were examined. A sample of 104 home providers completed a set of questionnaires which provided information on demographic characteristics, client maladaptive behavior, climate of the home, amount and variety of participation in community environments, and number and frequency of visitations with friends. Family care home residents were reported to have both handicapped and nonhandicapped friends and to participate in numerous community environments. Other evidence, however, raised questions about the selection of friendships and the independence of community integration. Correlates of community participation and friendship visits were examined. Results are discussed in terms of possible implications for family care services.