WHY DO PARENTS PLACE THEIR LEARNING-DISABLED CHILDREN IN RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES? SOCIO-CULTURAL CONTEXT OF A MINORITY GROUP

Background: There is growing evidence that de-institutionalization of learning-disabled people [LDP] is not permeating equally in all countries and social groups. Among the Arab Palestinian minority in Israel, who suffer from... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
There is growing evidence that de-institutionalization of learning-disabled people [LDP] is not permeating equally in all countries and social groups. Among the Arab Palestinian minority in Israel, who suffer from social inequality, residential placement of LDP is relatively new, constantly increasing and yet scarcely investigated. The present study aimed at exploring the factors that shape residential placement decision among Arab parents of LDP in Israel.

Method:
Semi-structured interviews were held with 18 parents of LDP living in two private residential facilities. Sampling was purposive, and data were analyzed thematically.

Results:
Three main themes emerged reflecting personal, social, cultural and political contexts that shape parents' placement decision: accumulation of difficulties, insufficient familiar and social support and lack of services and resources. The parents chose residential placement after prolonged resistance and despite feelings of pain and guilt.

Conclusion:
Residential placement is a consequence of intricate interactions between factors related to the families, their LD children and the particular socio-cultural and political contexts. The development of the de-institutionalization movement in post-industrial countries is not linked solely to values that emphasize the importance and centrality of the family and community, but more importantly to the availability and accessibility of community support services for the family.

Application to Practice:
Findings of this study will help occupational therapists understand the socio-cultural complexity of residential placement phenomenon. It will contribute to the development of comprehensive and culturally sensitive interventions to promote social inclusion of [LDP] and community-based residential services and settings.