M. Deepa
Scientist
Krishi Vigyan Kendra
Guntur, AP
B. Swarupa Rani
Research Associate
Department of Human Development & Family Studies
College of Home Science
PJTSAU, Hyderabad
Abstract
Parents of children with developmental disabilities experience higher levels of chronic stress, anxiety and depression than parents of children without disabilities. The study was based on exploring the needs of parents / caregivers, special children and socio economic characteristics of these families. Study was conducted in telangana districts. Sample comprised sixty children with special needs. Interview schedule was developped to study the socio economic characteristics of these families and needs of children. Wherease needs of thess families were explored by group discussion. Results revealed that parents of these children had no schooling and most of these families are from nuclear families , earning monthly income of rupees below ten thousand. Most of these children were first born with intellectual impairment associated with disorders of cerebral palsy and intellectual impairment. Self help skills, physiotherapy and social skills are the special needs and support groups, advocacy skills, individual health plans were the caregiver needs.
Key Words: Special Needs Education, Home Based Education.
