Editorial Type: research-article
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Online Publication Date: 01 Mar 2015

An Analysis of Haitian Parents' Perceptions of their Children with Disabilities

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Article Category: Research Article
Page Range: 3 – 21
DOI: 10.56829/2158-396X.15.1.3
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This exploratory qualitative study examines the perceptions of ten Haitian parents regarding their child with a disability, the education the child was receiving, their interaction with the school system, and how the disability has affected their relationship with their child and their involvement with the school. Data were obtained from interviews and analyzed using constant comparative techniques. Findings revealed that parents seldom disagreed with school personnel and did not fully grasp the different methods available to address their concerns, nor the role they were expected to play in the process. Overall, parents' perceptions were guided by two core concepts: coping mechanisms and locus of control. Implications of these perceptions and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Copyright: Copyright 2015, Division for Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Exceptional Learners of the Council for Exceptional Children 2015

Contributor Notes

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Josee Gregoire is the Assistant Principal at Natural Bridge Elementary School in Miami, Florida.

Elizabeth Cramer is an Associate Professor and Program Leader of Special Education at Florida International University in Miami, Florida.

Requests for reprints and correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Josee Gregoire, Natural Bridge Elementary School, 1650 N. N.E. 141st Street, North Miami, FL 33181. Email: jgregoire@dadeschools.net.
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