Social networks of people with mental retardation in residential settings

Information was collected on the social networks of 500 adults with mental retardation receiving different types of residential supports. Results indi cated that (a) the reported median size of participants' social networks (e xcluding staff) was 2 people; (b) 83% of participants were reported to have a staff member; 72%, a member of their family; 54%, another person with me ntal retardation; and 30%, a person who did not fit into any of these categ ories in their social network; (c) variation in the size and composition of participants' social networks was associated with a range of variables, in cluding the personal characteristics of residents (age, autism, ability, an d challenging behavior), the type of previous and current accommodation, st affing ratios, institutional climate, and the implementation of "active sup port."