The relationship of A Perceived Family Support System to the Institutional placement of Mentally Retarded Children

Abstract

Mothers of mentally retarded children were interviewed to assess the relationship of the placement of the child (home vs. respite vs. residential) to the mother's perception of the extent of her support system and the stresses acting upon the family. Findings indicate that the mothers of families who choose to retain their children at home perceive that they receive more support from their own parents and extended family members in addition to having greater availability of sitters. In addition, the mothers are more likely to be married, less likely to have an additional mentally retarded child, and less likely to perceive the child as causing behavior problems.