Impact of stimulation versus microswitch-based programs on indices of happiness of people with profound multiple disabilities.

This study was designed to assess whether the impact of a microswitch-based program on indices of happiness would be comparable with that of a stimulation program. Three persons with profound multiple disabilities participated. The microswitch-based program produced increases in indices of happiness which were fairly clear for the first two participants and quite modest for the third participant. These data were largely comparable with those obtained with the stimulation program. Implications of the findings in terms of program practicality, participants' independence and environmental control are discussed.