The study identified themes running through special class programs for the emotionally handicapped, analyzed classroom procedures, and described the teachers' backgrounds, attitudes, and purposes and the students' perceptions of the programs. Initially, 117 public school programs for the emotionally handicapped were located and surveyed by mail; then 54 programs were selected for site visits. Areas surveyed were the origin and operation of the programs, general characteristics of pupils, and classroom conditions and operations. The following conclusions were drawn: pupils, teachers, and observers found positive change as a result of participation, and program types were shown related to changes; specific pattern and uniformity in approach were lacking; school personnel realized that their original program plans required extensive modification and that flexibility was needed; program types differed widely; programs maintained a school related focus; and clinical support and understanding were helpful. The major statistical findings and evaluations are provided. (BW)