Adaptive Behavior of Learning Disabled and Non-Learning Disabled Children

Abstract

Adaptive behavior, problem behavior, and self-perception of behavior of 54 learning disabled children and 54 non-learning disabled children were compared to revealed the differences mainstream teachers perceive between the two groups. Multivariate analysis revealed differences in the first two measures. That is, the groups were different in each subscale of adaptive behavior, including social coping, relationships, pragmatics and production. Analysis of the problem-behavior scale indicated differences between the groups on three of five subscales. In each case, the scores for the LD group were higher indicating less desirable adaptive behavior and more problem behavior in the classroom. Implications of these results are presented as well as recommended use of adaptive-behavior measures for identification and the need to prepare mainstream teachers to deal with maladaptive behaviors in the classroom.