The Needs and Problems of Socially Disadvantaged Children as Perceived by Students and Teachers

Abstract

It was hypothesized in this study that there would be significant differences between perceptions of socially disadvantaged and other student and teacher groups on each subtest of the SRA Junior Inventory. Although the hypothesis was rejected, it was found that teachers have a better understanding of the needs and problems of disadvantaged youth than might be expected. Teachers, however, differed markedly with students by suggesting that the home rather than the school was the source of student frustration. Other discrepancies are noted, and implications are discussed.

Chapter II: Innovations in School Mental Health Programs

“…This is particularly critical with lower class children. Howard (1968) found that public school teachers in lower socioeconomic urban areas were rejecting in their attitudes toward lower class children. His evidence also indicated that teachers do not appreciate the problems which are most important to lower class children.…”