The successful social integration of individuals with mental retardation into the community is a major objective of deinstitutionalization policies. An intensive case study using participant observation methods investigated the degree to which this objective has been realized. Over a six month period the lifestyles of six men who were moderately mentally retarded residing in a group home were examined. Data consisted of comprehensive field notes derived from participant observations and interviews. The residents’ daily living and socialization behaviors were recorded and analysed. The observations indicated that while the men performed many personal and domestic living skills their interpersonal and social development was limited. Notable were the men's poor communication skills and limited interactions in the community. The need for additional training in these areas is discussed.
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