Characteristics of users and nonusers of respite care.

Characteristics of users and nonusers of respite care services were investigated in a sample of 105 biological mothers of children evidencing mild/moderate or severe/profound disabilities. Analyses revealed a low level of service use across groups and no significant difference between groups, despite significantly higher levels of reported stress among mothers of children with more severe disabilities. Results also indicated that marital status and the child's level of functioning were related to reported levels of depression, social support, and personal well being. The discrepancy between demonstrated need and service utilization was highlighted in the discussion.