| Abstract: | Severely physically handicapped children in deinstitutionalized and institutionalized programs were assessed on measures of locus of control and incentive orientation. Children in institutionalized programs were found to be significantly more internally controlled and more intrinsically motivated than their counterparts in mainstreamed settings. The results suggest that the decision to deinstitutionalize a child involves more than possible academic gains; growth in personality, positive mental health, and family acceptance are also important concerns. |
