Young Salvadoran Women with Learning Disabilities in Transition to Adulthood

• In Event: Poster Session 18
  In Poster Session: Current Issues and Topics in Special Education

Abstract

This exploratory interview study examined the early postsecondary employment, education, and home life experiences of three Salvadoran-American women with learning disabilities (LD). Their self-determination behaviors and beliefs, and the ways in which cultural and linguistic diversity may have affected their experiences were also examined. Results indicated supportive people and environments and participant’s attributes such as self-confidence, self-knowledge, perseverance, and their abilities to problem-solve and set goals fostered success. Results also indicated challenges related to their insufficient knowledge of the following: specifics of their LD, typical college policies and procedures, and accessing services for adults with LD. Additionally, results indicated cultural factors may have influenced their experiences. Practice, theory, and future research implications are discussed.

Authors

• Deanna Ortiz, The George Washington University

• Juliana M. Taymans, The George Washington University