In the current context in the United States the inclusion of persons with developmental disabilities, that is an intellectual or functional deficit identified prior to age twenty-one, is considered to be a special project. In the church this is often seen as something beyond the usual expectation of the church. This attitude is a development which…

The purpose of this qualitative study was to expand the scarce information available on how mothers first observe their children's early development, assess potential problems, and then come to recognize their concerns. In-depth knowledge about mothers' perspectives on the discovery process can help social workers to promote identification of…

The unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities is twice that of non-disabled job seekers (as reported by Allsup's second quarter report, 2012). An even greater disparity for individuals with developmental disabilities exists. Despite an equal or greater desire to find a job (Ali, Schur, & Blanck, 2011) in comparison with non-disabled…

Historically people with significant disabilities were restricted to places such as adult activity centers, sheltered workshops, nursing homes, and institutions. Studies have shown the high school drop-out rate for this population is higher than those who are non-disabled. Policy makers concluded that these individuals needed to be better prepared…

Menstruation is a difficult topic to address with as females with or without disabilities. It is a more significant challenge for females with developmental disabilities (DD) because it stimulates a variety of physical and psychological changes. Thus, some females with DD might have a qualitatively different experience compared to the general…

This study focused on the experience of parents concerned with child social behavior and the perception of bibliotherapy as an intervention. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, four families raising children between the ages of 4-12 participated in a series of interviews. The children's social needs varied, but parent concerns were…

Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) includes a provision for states to provide early intervention (EI) for infants and toddlers demonstrating developmental challenges. Limited data identify how parents, and especially fathers, feel about their experiences participating in Part C EI. This study investigated how fathers…

This dissertation presents the findings of a qualitative study examining needs of Chinese families with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The purpose of this dissertation is to inform the process of further developing the family support programs and opportunities that already exist in China and to assist in establishing…

Parental involvement has been studied in the field of education since the 1970s. Scholars assert that parental involvement affects students' achievement and performance (Christenson, Rounds, & Gorney, 1992; Epstein, Sanders, Simons, Salinas, Janson, & Van Voorhis, 2002; Fan & Chen, 2001; Herman & Yeh, 1983; von Voorhis, 2003).…

Autism has a unique history. The definition has broadened and changed over time, from an emotional disturbance with psychogenic origins to a neurodevelopmental disability with suspected environmental and genetic origins. Diagnosis occurs later than children born with obvious disabilities such as cerebral palsy or Down syndrome, but earlier than…

Asperger syndrome (AS) and high functioning autism are complex developmental disabilities that have a significant impact on the individual and his/her family. Asperger syndrome is characterized by challenges with understanding non-verbal communication, difficulties with social relationships, and restricted interests. Having a brother or sister…

This study explored the beliefs and practices of diverse families surrounding the emergence of literacy development in young children with disabilities. Interviews were conducted with families of young children with disabilities to identify the beliefs about literacy and disability that influence the literacy experiences they provide for their…

This dissertation is a qualitative research study of two people labeled with developmental disabilities who live in residential settings with various supports provided by local agencies. Scott is 43 years old and lives in a Residential Supported Home with four other housemates and permanent staff support and supervision. Pat is 29 years old and…