Taiwanese mothers' perception of teenagers with mild-moderate mental retardation

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate the perceptions of 10 Taiwanese mothers that have children with mild-moderate mental retardation as their children enter into their teenage years (13-15), with a particular focus on the issues of education, social competence, and family relationship. In addition, this study also examined whether these 10 mothers have altered their attitudes toward persons with disabilities after having children with disabilities. Through this study, the researcher found out current perceptions of Taiwanese mothers toward their young teenagers with mental retardation. The results of this study can serve as a resource that may help special education and rehabilitation services providers to gain a better understanding of the Taiwanese population when they are working with families and young teenagers from Taiwan.