Inclusion of Religion and Spirituality in the Special Education Literature

Abstract

Although traditionally not an area of service delivered by special educators, the area of religion and spirituality for persons with disabilities is receiving more attention as a quality-of-life outcome. This literature review examined the special education literature to determine the extent to which special educators are exposed to literature concerned with these issues. The results indicated that information is found in the literature but occurs most often as embedded references in articles on other topics. Information was most often included in articles focusing on diversity, and the majority of references to religion and spirituality were descriptions of religions. Religion and spirituality are linked to the overarching goals of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 and quality-of-life outcomes. Future research and roles for professionals are discussed.