ScientificWorldJournal. 2007 Nov 12;7:1799-809. Research indicates that family reaction to the birth of a disabled child changes according to the type of disability <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> the child's diagnostic category. The differences are probably an indirect consequence of anticipated or actual reactions by those surrounding the disabled child <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> the family, in addition to parental reactions. Many researchers have recently mentioned the positive coping <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> functioning of many families with developmentally disabled children. In the past there was a tendency to emphasize issues of illness <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> pressures, spousal strain <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> maladjustment within the family, while presently they are replaced with questions concerning positive adjustment, satisfaction, acceptance, <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> spousal harmony. Rather than perceiving the family as a helpless victim, it is perceived as a unit that adapts by a process of structuring. Professionals must acknowledge the importance of the family, this change towards a positive attitude towards disability <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> that the controls decisions concerning the disabled child <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">and</span> the family.