Parental Perceptions of the Affects of Learning Disabilities Assessment on Family Adaptation

Abstract

This study explored parents'experiences, concerns, and feelings surrounding the psychoeducational assessment and diagnosis of their child with a learning disability. Two interviews were conducted with 6 sets of parents whose children had been diagnosed with learning disabilities within 6 months of the initial interview. Parents were asked to describe in detail their feelings, experiences, and concerns before, during, and following the assessment. Data was analyzed using a qualitative framework. Parents in this study viewed the assessment as a means of gainig information that would help them understand their children better, but described only minimal involvement in and understanding of the assessment process. Despite confusion over the results and diagnoses, parents utilized the information they gained to enhance their coping skills, and to continue their pursuit of support services to meet the needs of their children with learning disabilities.