An Examination of Families of Children With Deaf-Blindness: Satisfaction With School Services and Partnerships

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Abstract

Children with deaf-blindness have complex needs. Research on families of children with low incidence disabilities such as deaf-blindness has indicated that supports from formal and informal networks is associated with reduced parental stress. This study utilized a national sample of families of children with deaf-blindness ages birth to 21 (N=227) to understand families’ experiences with disability-related services. We utilized survey research design and quantitative data analysis procedures to examine (a) families’ use and satisfaction of services and (b) the relationship of families’ ratings of service and support adequacy, satisfaction with family-professional partnership, and family quality of life. In this paper we report the study results and highlight the significance for educational research and practice.

Authors

• Kathleen Kyzar, Texas Christian University

• Shana J Haines, The University of Vermont