FAMILY PREDICTORS OF MATERNAL AND PATERNAL INVOLVEMENT IN PROGRAMS FOR YOUNG-CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

The study of family variables has become increasingly critical in unde rstanding outcomes typically considered program driven. Research Linki ng family variables to parental involvement in early intervention prog rams for young children with disabilities is generally lacking. The pu rpose of this study was to determine the combined influence and predic tive ability of family characteristics on maternal and paternal involv ement in early intervention programs. Service providers rated mothers' and fathers' involvement in early intervention programs. Mothers and fathers completed a battery of self-report questionnaires related to a variety of constructs, such as family functioning, marital adjustment , social supports, stress, coping and parental involvement. Structural equation modeling was used to test the predictive ability of family v ariables. Two different models were developed for mothers and fathers. Results indicated significant outcomes for both groups, largely suppo rting the proposed model. The coping variable emerged as a significant predictor of maternal and paternal involvement as well as a mediator variable between family functioning and parental involvement.