COMPARISON OF FACTORS INFLUENCING MOTHERS PERCEPTIONS ABOUT THE FUTURES OF THEIR ADOLESCENT CHILDREN WITH AND WITHOUT DISABILITIES

A qualitative methodology was used to compare specific experiences and ecological factors that 40 mothers perceived as influencing their exp ectations for their adolescents (20 with severe disabilities and 20 vo cational education students with no documented disabilities). Analyses of all responses revealed that mothers identified many of the same fa ctors as influencing perceptions about their adolescents' futures. Chi ldren's personalities and school- and community-provided supports were mentioned as important to children's success. Mothers of adolescents with disabilities described their children more positively. Mothers of vocational education students were concerned about their children's j ob prospects, whereas mothers of students with disabilities tended to emphasize limitations of support by the adult service system. Social r elationships were more of a concern for mothers of youth with disabili ties.