Parents as Therapists: A Responsible Alternative or Abrogation of Responsibility?

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Abstract
In the past two decades a growing theoretical and research literature has influenced treatment of and programming for children with special needs; one crucial area concerns early intervention programs, many of which are “home‐based” and rely heavily upon parents as implementors of treatment. More recently there has been increasing focus on the emotional impact of a handicapped child on the family, both parents and siblings. This paper reviews home‐based programs and psychosocial aspects of parental involvement, and questions whether professionals are expecting too much of parents who already may be physically and emotionally stressed by having to care for a handicapped child. Recommendations are made which require careful professional consideration concerning the role of parental involvement.