ABSTRACT
Most writers on adolescence see the central developmental task at this stage in life as being the gradual attainment of personal independence. Although the attainment of physical independence is partly limited by the nature and severity of the disability, a great deal depends on the attitudes of the teenagers, their parents, and other members of society. In the case of handicapped young people, having such a job is both an indicator of a certain level of responsibility and independence, and a great help in developing feelings of responsibility. When self-help skills were considered in relation to severity of handicap there was little difference between the mildly and the moderately handicapped group except in activities involving hand function, such as dressing, hair washing, and making a meal. The teenagers were also asked whether their parents gave them pocket money, whether they saved any regularly, and the sort of things they spent their money on.
