Specialized group homes for persons with severe or profound mental-retardation and serious problem behavior in England

Thirteen people with severe or profound mental retardation identified by their local service agencies as presenting the most serious problem behaviour were transferred from institutional care to specialized group homes. A multiple time-series design and direct observation were used to evaluate whether there was any change in their level of participation in meaningful activity; social interaction and problem behaviour were also observed. Participation increased significantly on transfer and included a wider range of activities. The majority of participants did not increase their major problem behaviour. The results support the view that individualised community-based placements can replace institutions for this group of clients.