This paper traces over time changes in concepts of child care using two care centers in Oregon as examples. Early in the twentieth century, the ideas of the time stressed the need to institutionalize dependent , neglected, and retarded children in a setting which focused on simple custodial care. The lack of environmental stimulation was evident. With the advances in the nation’s social, economic, and medical services in midcentury, besides the advances in technology, attitudes started to change which stressed the importance of care-giving institutions such as foster homes, child clinics and mental health facilities as well as specialized residential care for more disturbed or delinquent children. Child care has improved greatly because of the greater availability of both federal and state funds for private and public institutions and the increased use of diagnostic centers. One of the significant results from this change in simply housing children in need to housing and treating them in multifaceted and environmentally improved care facilities is the stimulus given to constantly develop and innovate knowledge and methods in the care of children.

The purpose of this study was to assess the adjustment of 157 children discharged from Edgefield Lodge in an effort toward accountability to both clients served and the public. Level of adjustment of the children was determined by checking the records of various community agencies including the Police, Sherriff, Youth Service Centers, Juvenile Court, Children’s Services Division, and the schools. Using the information gathered, the adjustment of each child was scored using the Community Adaptation Scale which was developed for that purpose. Theses adjustment scores were the main outcome variable in the study.