The status quo of Psychological and Social Challenges for Families of People with Special Needs: Perspectives on Intervention and Community Support

Ahmed, Reda; Badr, Basma Mohamed; Elleithy, Fatma

doi:10.21608/csej.2025.359025.1042

The status quo of Psychological and Social Challenges for Families of People with Special Needs: Perspectives on Intervention and Community Support

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ College of Education - Helwan University

² College of Special Education- Misr University for Science and Technology

³ College of Special Education - Misr University for Science and Technology

10.21608/csej.2025.359025.1042

Abstract

The study aimed to explore the psychological and social challenges faced by families of children with special needs and to examine avenues for community intervention and support. The research sample consisted of 75 parents (mothers and fathers) of children with special needs who frequent specialized centers in Cairo and Giza governorates. A questionnaire was developed to assess the psychological and social challenges experienced by these families and the prospects for community intervention and support. The study employed a survey methodology. The results revealed statistically significant differences in the mean scores of the research participants on the questionnaire based on marital status, educational level, and type of disability. However, no significant differences were found based on gender. The findings indicated that parents face substantial psychological and emotional challenges, necessitating intensive psychological support interventions. Although family relationships were impacted, they had not deteriorated to a critical level, suggesting that family support could be reinforced to mitigate negative effects. Financial challenges emerged as the most significant issue, as reflected by the highest mean scores, indicating that families struggle greatly to cover the costs of treatment and care. Additionally, a lack of community support represents a major challenge, with families perceiving a gap in awareness and initiatives that could assist them. While psychological therapy is relatively well-supported, these services are not sustainably accessible. Furthermore, educational and vocational support programs are severely lacking, which negatively affects the development and integration of children with special needs. The study recommended promoting research on the realities of families with children with special needs to develop more effective intervention strategies that address their diverse needs.

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