NEEDS, CHALLENGES, AND RESOURCES OF FAMILIES RAISING CHILDREN WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES: RESULTS OF AN ALL-RUSSIAN SURVEY

Abstract

The article analyzes the needs and difficulties of families raising children with learning disabilities (LD) ranging from preschool to adolescence. The purpose of the study is to identify, based on an empirical analysis of data from an all-Russian online survey, the key problem areas in the upbringing and education of children with LD, as well as to assess family resources and the availability of psychological and pedagogical support. It is shown that despite the high level of family self‑reliance (78–87% cope with difficulties on their own), there remains a deficit of targeted psychological support for adult family members, a shortage of specialized services, and uncertainty regarding developmental prognoses. Educational organizations act as the main coordinators of assistance, but interagency cooperation needs to be strengthened. It is concluded that timely information for parents, psychological support for families, and adaptation of educational programs for adolescents with LD are necessary.