Educational Services and Remediation Support Provided for Parents of Children with Disabilities and Relationship with Feelings of Anxiety and Stressors During Coronavirus Pandemic

Abstract

This study aimed at identifying the support needed by parents, considering their psychological factors, and also the services provided by special education centers in some Arab countries, e.g. Saudi Arabia, Oman, UAE during the interruption of direct work. Responses of 638 parents of children with special needs were collected using an electronic self-report questionnaire. The results revealed, a high level of parent’s anxiety due to the conditions caused by COVID-19 and also increase in mother’s future anxiety associated with the impact on the child’s future life that exceeded father’s future anxiety. The study showed an increase in stress which was evident from the appearance of pathological symptoms that could threaten personal health or people around; increase in feelings of pressure because of stopping center services due breaking down and the absence of activities for the child. Results of multiple linear regression indicated the importance of anxiety feelings in determining the need for psychological support. Parents and children received some services related to school subjects in a modest proportion and received a training related to self-care. The study recommended offering opportunities for parents to carry out their role that help reduce the long-term consequences during any crises.