Institutional constraints and external pressures influencing referral decisions

Institutional constraints and external pressures perceived by public school teachers as influential in making referrals were identified in this research. Organizational factors, such as LEA procedures or the teacher's perception of the professional competence of referral recipients, and availability of services were cited as institutional constraints on referrals. Outside agency influences, federal or state requirements, and concerns of parents were cited as external pressures that influence referrals. The implications of these findings are discussed with regard to teacher concerns and professional practice.