PARENTS' VIEWS ABOUT THE IMPACTS OF COVID-19 ON INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS: THE CASE OF TURKEY

Abstract

This study investigates the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the lives of individuals with special needs. In the research carried out with phenomenological research design, data were obtained through an online questionnaire consisting of open-ended questions developed by researchers from 121 parents with children with special needs, living in 14 different cities in Turkey. From the content analysis of the data, eight themes were identified, namely, education, health, social life, behavioral-emotional adaptation, physical condition, family communication, indoor activities and social supports and needs. According to the findings, parents mostly stated that during the pandemic process, (a) social lives of children with special needs were restricted, (b) their daily routines were disturbed, (c) they could not benefit efficiently from distance learning, (d) their behavioral problems such as tantrums and harming themselves and others (e.g., parents) were increased, (e) negative physical situations emerged, such as weight gain / loss, sleep disorders, stress related problems in family communication. In addition, parents indicated that they did indoor activities with their children and that they did not have difficulties in accessing health services for their children. The majority of the parents stated that they needed psychological counseling, distance education services, financial support. Finally, parents expressed that they had received the greatest support from their family members and teachers.