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Special Olympics: an evaluation by professionals and parents
1Department of Psychology, Social and Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708.
Mental Retardation
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Special Olympics is highly valued by experts and parents for enhancing social adjustment and life satisfaction in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Some experts raised concerns about potential segregation, while parents focused on administrative aspects.
Area of Science:
- Disability Studies
- Sports Science
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Special Olympics provides sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Understanding stakeholder perceptions is crucial for program development and inclusivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine attitudes of experts and parents toward the Special Olympics program.
- To identify perceived benefits, strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 41 experts in intellectual disabilities and 40 parents of Special Olympics participants.
- The questionnaire included Likert-type and open-ended questions on program goals, benefits, and concerns.
- Experts also commented on the program's role in the normalization debate.
Main Results:
- Both experts and parents generally viewed Special Olympics as highly beneficial.
- Key benefits cited include improved social adjustment and life satisfaction.
- Experts raised concerns about potential program segregation, while parents focused on administrative issues.
Conclusions:
- Special Olympics is perceived positively by key stakeholders, particularly regarding social and life benefits.
- Addressing expert concerns about segregation and parent-identified administrative issues is important for program enhancement.
- The program's role in promoting normalization requires ongoing consideration.