Differences in the Relationship Between Family Environments and Self-Determination Among Anglo, Latino, and Female Students With Disabilities
Career Development and Transition for Exceptional Individuals
Published online on November 07, 2012
Abstract
The role of gender and ethnicity as moderators of the relationship between perceived family environments and levels of self-determination was examined in a sample of students with disabilities. A sample of 157 Latino and Anglo students with disabilities completed the Family Environment Scale and the Arc Self-Determination Scale. Results indicated Latino and female students reported significantly higher levels of self-determination than Anglo male students. Differences were also found among Latino, Anglo, and female students in the relationship between perceived family environments and self-determination. Implications include developing ways families and schools can provide conditions to nurture self-determination and transition planning that are sensitive to ethnic and gender differences.