A Pilot Investigation Tennyson J. Wright Yolanda G. Martinez Charlotte G. Dixon University of South Florida Wyatt Buckner Self Reliance Inc. Minority consumers continue to encounter barriers to inclusion in society. This investigation used a focus group approach to determine whether or not barriers existed for minority consumers of an Independent Living program in Central Florida and if so, how these barriers impacted the transportation, housing, vocational training, medical, and independent living services received by the consumer. Problems were identified and solutions offered in all of the above areas. Recommendations for improved services delivery are offered.
Families are a critical influence in the lives of adults with mental retardation.
The Resiliency Model of Family Stress, Adjustment, and Adaptation provides a framework for rehabilitation counselors to understand key issues confronting families with an adult son or daughter with mental retardation. Assessment methods useful for rehabilitation counselors are also discussed. The present study examined the relationship among daily stresses, coping behaviors and level of symptoms and functioning. On average, participants showed only transient symptoms and no more than slight impairment in psychosocial functioning. Participants reported having few stresses but rated them at a medium level of severity.