Graduate Program

School Psychology

Degree Name

Specialist in School Psychology

Semester of Degree Completion

1995

Thesis Director

Christine McCormick

Abstract

This study attempted to determine whether parents of children receiving special education services are being empowered by the present special education system or growing dependent on it. A survey was constructed based upon the three criteria deemed necessary by social policy analyst Charles Murray to yield empowerment. The survey was administered by phone to 50 parents of children receiving special education services. Results indicated that primary source of income and expression of participation do not have an impact on degree of empowerment as measured by the Empowerment/Dependency Survey. Severity of handicap did not predict whether or not parents desired additional outside services. Length of time the child received special education services did predict parental satisfaction with the child's education program.

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