Much research has been conducted regarding functioning and limitations within the realm of childhood disability. However, what has often been lacking is a comparison group within the typically developing population. This study attempted to provide such a comparison group for educational and health issues. A random digit dialed telephone survey was conducted with 500 families containing typically-developing school-aged children attending public school in North Carolina. Data from these children were then compared to data gathered from a separate sample of 200 school-aged children with disabilities in North Carolina. The purpose of this survey was to provide a population-based estimate of functioning and limitations with special emphasis on educational and health issues identified as relevant to childhood disability in previous research studies. Results of the study focus on: (a) identifying characteristics of students, (b) students' school and community participation, (c) caregivers' perceived quality of life of students, (d) prevalence of secondary conditions, and (e) access to health care. The results are significant in terms of implications for follow-up research and prevention and intervention initiatives.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to articulate the dimensions of participation and environment on which students with and without disabilities differ. Participants will also be able to describe the relative prevalence of limitations within a reference group of typically-developing school-aged children
Keywords: Disability, Surveillance
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.