Resettling mentally retarded adults in the community--almost 4 years later

A cohort of 63 mentally retarded adults from three state schools was studied longitudinally for almost 4 years from the time they were resettled at a community residence in a large city. The purpose of the study was to determine whether changes in self-image, interpersonal relationships, work experience, use of leisure time, personal decision-making, and social competency would occur as a result of living in a new environment. Results of three interviews at different points in time were compared and presented by Birenbaum and Seiffer (1976). In the present study we compared results obtained through third- and fourth-wave interviews of 42 residents who remained at the community residence for almost 4 years. Respondents were found to maintain steady involvement in sheltered workshops and have some personal relations with peers, but they were less active participants in leisure activities in the community and more restricted in personal decision-making at home.