This research project focused on health education needs of students with disabilities as perceived by their parents. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with parents of adolescent children with disabilities. The data were analyzed using an emergent coding system by breaking the narrative down into the smallest meaningful pieces of text. From this, categories that organized and explained the underlying themes in the data were formed. The physical dimension of health was in the forefronts of these participants' minds. In the analysis of the physical dimension of health several categories of the physical health dimension were discussed such as medical needs, safety, exercise, weight control, personal hygiene, and sexuality. When looking at the social dimension, several categories seemed to emerge such as relationships at school, obstacles to those relationships and how to address the obstacles, relationships outside of school and in the community, and suggestions for schools to improve their approach to social health for children with disabilities. The emotional and mental dimensions were combined into an all-encompassing dimension entitled, psychological dimension. The spiritual dimension and parental coping also emerged as important components of their health education needs. These components were combined to form a new model of conceptualizing health education for adolescents with disabilities that is more descriptive and accurate to their experiences. It is hoped that this model will be refined through further research to improve health educators' understanding of the importance of health education for adolescents with disabilities.
Learning Objectives: "At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) will be able to: 1. Describe parental perceptions of the health education needs of adolescent children with disabilities." 2. Identify common themes found in health education needs assessments of adolescent children with disabilities." 3. Describe a new conceptual model for health education for adolescent children with disabilities."
Keywords: Disability, Health Education
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.