Die belewingswereld van oudleerlinge van skole vir serebraal gestremdes

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Cerebral Palsy, a disability with world-wide distribution, affects not only theafflicted, but also the community at large. To date, most research in this area hasfocused on babies, children and adolescents. It has, however, become apparent thatthe emphasis should shift to adult cerebral palsied people to ensure that the efficacyand applicability of the years of specialized education and therapy remain relevant.The purpose of this investigation was to build up a composite picture of the world,as experienced by past pupils of schools for the disabled in South Africa. Theinformants had minimum academic qualifications of Standard 8. In addition to astudy of current literature in this field, a questionnaire was administered nationwide.This was followed by interviews with a representative sample of therespondents.The investigation disclosed that the severity of the disability did not necessarilyinfluence the respondents' academic achievements nor their satisfaction with theirquality of life. Many severely disabled people had attained exceptionalachievements and perceived their lives as meaningful.Although informants' responses reflected positive influences which specializedschools have had on their development, certain educational aspects need reevaluation.To prevent over-protection and the development of unrealisticexpectations, pupils from these schools need more exposure to the demands of thenon-disabled world. Training in life skills as well as bridging between school andthe adult world could promote less stressful adjustments.Psychological problems were evident in most of the respondents. Although theyexpressed their appreciation of the therapeutic and psychological services whichthey had experienced, problem areas were evident. Psychologists should beapproachable, displaying genuine concern, their honesty and integrity beingirreproachable. Guidance, which in some schools is neglected, should receivepriority. Pupils should be thoroughly informed about their disabilities and should beexposed to existential questions during Guidance sessions.Although the informants were generally satisfied with their living conditions, a need for greater independence was expressed. Those living in their own homes werehappier than those living in homes for the disabled, who experienced a lack ofprivacy and self determination which severely affected their quality of life.Cerebral palsied workers do not always attain the same productivity level as nondisabledpeople but they are disciplined and display good interpersonalrelationships with their colleagues. Disability grants shoulds be conceded withcircumspection and the practice of subsidised salaries should receive moreattention.Social isolation was prevalent among the respondents, the unfulfilling relationshipsleading to anxiety and despondency. A lack of self-confidence on a social level wasoften the crux of the problem. It is vital that as scholars the disabled learn toprocess negative reactions from the community and also how to put non-disabledpeople at ease when in their presence. Society, in return, needs to be educatedregarding disability.This investigation has motivated various suggestions with regard to the education,therapy and psychological guidance of cerebral palsied children.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University