Deinstitutionalized Mentally Retarded People: A Closer Look

Abstract

This decade has seen the phenomenon of deinstitutionalization surface as a major trend affecting service delivery options to the retarded. At least philosophically we invariably assume that the facilities and services we offer the retarded are designed to enhance prospects for normalization and integration into the social mainstream. Yet the advent of purposeful deinstitutionalization has been received largely with reticence if not reluctance. To a considerable degree, our lack of readiness to provide training and other services within the immediate community can be attributed to lack of information. There are certain delineable bodies of information that are requisite to assuring success in the shift of service from generally remote, large and impersonal institutions to the variety of home and home-like alternatives evolving in local communities. Such knowledge should not only contribute to success in the effort, but bolster our confidence in pursuing the objectives of deinstitutionalization. Specifically, we may ask, What preparatory events should occur in institutional settings prior to discharge to facilitate eventual community adjustment? What degree and nature of follow-up services by institutional personnel are necessary to maintain previously institutionalized persons in the community? What minimum range of services (social, educational, and medical) need to be available within the community to minimize returns to institutional settings? What services and training experiences are required by families, business and industry, and the public at large to support the residence of retarded persons in community-based settings? The paper which follows summarizes a major empirical undertaking designed to evolve such a knowledge base from a nationwide perspective. The Project described has produced six volumes of methodology and data addressed to an examination of deinstitutionalization and a plethora of concomitant variables. In devoting the Research Implications Department of this issue of Education and Training of the Mentally Retarded to the Deinstitutionalization Project conducted by Abt Associates Inc., it is our intent to alert the professional community to the availability of this knowledge base. We feel that the information generated by this BEH funded Project can and should be integrated into planning efforts in behalf of community services for the retarded and their families.