An index of social competence for use in determining the service needs of mentally handicapped adults.

An index of Social Competence, covering 15 ability areas was developed for use with mentally handicapped adults. Statistical analyses of data obtained with a sample of 376 adults, living in the community suggested that there were three main factors underlying social competence. Eight subgroupings of the sample could then be derived according to the individuals, scores on the three factors and validatory evidence is presented for these groupings in terms of predictable relationships with certain independent variables such as the expressed need for residential care. Furthermore ratings made by staff and parents were reasonably similar. The index should prove particularly useful in surveys of service requirements especially in the social and residential areas.