What price theory if you cannot afford the busfare: normalization and leisure services for people with learning disabilities

This paper explores whether normalization theory can provide a useful framework against which to assess the relevance of leisure activity as part of day or residential services to people with learning disabilities. Changing attitudes and patterns of leisure are discussed. Four issues in the normalization principle are examined in detail as they concern the tension between fitting in, and making demands on, society as alternative strategies for achieving respect and integration: image, age appropriateness, use of special aids and group activities. Costs and benefits of segregated leisure activities are reviewed. Practical and psychological barriers to integration are also discussed.