The manual is designed to acquaint parents and friends of developmentally disabled persons in New York residential treatment facilities with the manner in which a developmental center should be maintained and staffed, the services which should be provided to the residents, and the basic legal rights of the residents. A short summary of rights is provided along with a descriptive list (including addresses) of organizations and agencies dealing with the legal rights of developmentally disabled individuals. Admissions and retention procedures are outlined and the right to an individualized program of habilitation is explained. Particulars of the living environment of residents, including acceptable methods and appropriate circumstances of restraint and seclusion, are explored. Other aspects considered include visitation and correspondence rights, vocational programs, maintenance and confidentiality of records, transfer procedures, community placement, medical treatment, and protection of residents through such legal means as conservators. A 37 item glossary of relevant terms is included. (PHR)