Evaluating inclusion: an examination of parent views and factors influencing their perspectives

The study examined perceptions of issues associated with inclusive education of 437 parents from a midwestern state in the United States who have a child with a mild, moderate, or severe disability. Parents responded to a modified form of the Opinions Related to Mainstreaming (ORM) Scale and provided additional written comments. Parents gave strong support to the inclusion concept from a legal and philosophical standpoint. They identified social and emotional outcomes as benefits of inclusion, yet were concerned about possible social isolation, negative attitudes, the quality of instruction, teacher training and skills, and support from teachers and from other parents. Several background variables were related to attitudes. Stronger support for inclusion was given by parents of younger children, children with mild disabilities, parents who reported not knowing their child's education placement, and those with college education. Implications for practices and future research are discussed.