Although it is generally accepted that beneficial effects accrue when relocating persons with severe handicaps from large to smaller facilities, a specific analysis of concurrent environmental changes is needed. The present study investigated the relationship between choice availability and levels of adaptive and maladaptive behavior in persons with severe handicaps following their relocation to smaller residential facilities. Specifically, 57 residents of a large developmental center (30 men and 27 women, mean age 35 years) were relocated to either a transitional developmental center before placement into smaller residential facilities or directly into separate smaller community residences. AAMD Adaptive Behavior Scale, Vineland Maladaptive Behavior Scale, and Resident Choice Assessment Scale data were obtained for both groups over a 1-year follow-up period. Degree of resident choice was significantly correlated with areas of adaptive and, to a lesser extent, maladaptive behavior. Choice availability is proposed as a meaningful variable for modifying residential programs, developing effective behaviors, and classifying living facilities for persons with severe handicaps
