Russian "defectology": anticipating Perestroika in the field

Created as a part of the general Russian educational system, special education in Russia has mirrored all the good and bad qualities of that system. It was during the Soviet phase of its existence that Russian remedial education developed its specific and unique character, reflecting the structure and values of the global social environment. Despite the fact that Russian society realized the need to change its general educational system, remedial education remained untouched by reconstructive forces. This article discusses both the background and the current state of treatment of children with disabilities in Russia. The theoretical basis of the modern Russian approach to disability, the current needy population, and the existing system for referral and rehabilitation are described, and emerging trends and new perspectives on the Russian treatment of children with disabilities are presented.