Classroom behavior patterns of EMH, LD and EH students

This investigation determined whether classroom teachers could differentiate among EMH, LD and EH students based on their perception of classroom behavior patterns. Ratings were obtained on 10 scales from the Classroom Behavior Inventory for each of 20 exceptional students from each category of handicap and a comparison child of the same race and sex from the same regular classroom. As predicted from Schaefer's model of adaptive behavior, EMH students were distinguished by low intelligence, creativity and independent functioning. LD and EMH students showed a similar pattern of behavior when compared to typical students in the same classes but EMH students were regarded as more severely handicapped in their behavior. Although poor task-orientation was common to both EMH and EH students, the latter were evaluated as more distractible and were differentiated from both EMH and LD students on ratings of considerateness and hostility. The results are interpreted in relation to implications for screening and program planning based on the Classroom Behavior Inventory.