Families of disabled children (N=32) using respite care over a four-month period reported positive impact on family relations, social activities, emotional and physical strains, and plans for institutional care. Families caring for younger children viewed the services as more helpful than parents caring for older children or adults. (Author/CL)

This paper presents the Institute of Medicine model of the dynamic nature of the disabling process of both primary disabilities and secondary conditions, and the interaction of that process with risk factors and quality of life. The components of a comprehensive disability prevention program are discussed. (Author/JDD)

Comments on "On What Basis Hope? Modern Progress and Postmodern Possibility" (Danforth), which argues that advances in social science have had a negative impact on the lives of individuals with mental retardation. Argues that Danforth distorts the contributions of the scientific method in positively affecting human lives. (CR)

Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with 187 individuals including family members of children with a disability, individuals with a disability, family of children without a disability, service providers, and administrators. Ten domains of family quality of life were identified and described in terms of subdomains, indicators, and…

Quality of life of 76 school-age children with disabilities receiving education services in public schools was compared to that of 64 typical students enrolled in grades K-12. Scores of students with disabilities were lower on all scales of the Quality of Student Life Questionnaire, particularly on satisfaction, well-being, and social belonging.…

Answers criticisms of "On What Basis Hope? Modern Progress and Postmodern Possibility" (Danforth), which used a postmodernist perspective to discuss the history and utilization of modern social science and the myth of scientific progress. The "validation trap" of scientific research and its limiting effect on innovation is discussed. (CR)

This study, involving 85 workers with and without disabilities, found few differences in coworker relations and interactions. Of nine interaction categories, coworkers without disabilities interacted more among themselves in only one--befriending off the job. Individual workers with disabilities in light industry occupations experienced less…