In this study, the effects of two schedules of implementing instruction (every-day and every-other-day) were compared. Six preschool children participated, 4 with typical development and 2 with disabilities (autism and pervasive developmental disorders). An adapted alternating treatments design was used to evaluate the effects of the two schedules. Children's performance on target behaviors, maintenance of the behaviors, generalization across persons and settings, and observational learning were assessed. The findings indicated that (a) 5 of the 6 children acquired all behaviors taught with both schedules, and 1 child acquired one behavior with each schedule; (b) all children acquired behaviors in the every-other-day schedule in fewer sessions, trials, and minutes of instruction than in the every-day schedule; (c) generalization and follow-up were not differentially affected by the two schedules; and (d) relatively little observational learning occurred. The results are discussed in terms of future research on scheduling instruction and implications for practice.

International adoption can be a rewarding way for parents to build a family and many varied factors contribute to a positive adoption outcome. In particular, the period of adjustment just prior to and following an international adoption is a major transition for the adoptive family. Positive outcomes are related to both lower parental stress and higher marital satisfaction of the adoptive parents, and strong marital support is a protective factor ( Mainemer, Gilman and Ames, 1998 ). Examining the marital relationship during this time of transition may bring understanding of the effects of the adoption process on the parents’ marital relationship; identifying characteristics that indicate susceptibility to marital discord and possible areas for intervention increases the chances of a positive adoption outcome. This study examined 49 mothers’ perceptions of marital satisfaction, marital happiness and personal stress in the weeks preceding and the months following an international adoption. Women are often the primary caregivers of the newly adopted child and mothers tend to indicate distress during this period, therefore this investigation focused on the maternal viewpoint. The sample included children who had been designated as special needs in the country of origin as well as others who had not. The findings suggest that marriages with positive perceptions and satisfaction prior to adoption fare best during the early months post-adoption. Older women reported less positive perceptions of their marriages and spouses; therefore, mothers beyond childbearing age may benefit from further support.