Sanctuaries, "Special Needs," and Service: Religious Leader Perceptions on Including Children with Disability

Religion can play an important role in the life of a family of a child with a disability, but children with disabilities and their family members often reported they did not feel supported in religious environments. Families often indicated religious leaders were a factor that can change perception....

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of disability & religion 2020-10, Vol.24 (4), p.413-430
Main Authors: Stewart-Ginsburg, Jared H., Baughan, Cynthia C., Smith, JaneDiane, Collins, Belva C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Attitudes
Children with disabilities
Clergy
Disability
Families & family life
inclusion
inclusive congregations
Leadership
Relatives
Religion
Religious leaders
Religious organizations
Sanctuaries
special education
Special needs children
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Summary:Religion can play an important role in the life of a family of a child with a disability, but children with disabilities and their family members often reported they did not feel supported in religious environments. Families often indicated religious leaders were a factor that can change perception. This study investigated the experience, knowledge, and attitudes of faith community leaders on including children with disabilities and their families in religious organizations. Participants included clergy and staff members who serve in leadership capacities. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach including an online survey and focus group meetings. This article reports the quantitative results. Participants reported inclusive attitudes, but varying experience and minimal training in this area. Trends found in responses were explored and corroborated to examine relationships between data sets and the body of literature.
ISSN:2331-2521
2331-253X
DOI:10.1080/23312521.2020.1776188