Emotional Disturbance/Behavioral Disorders and a Delphic Approach to the Future

Abstract

This study uses a Delphi technique to estimate the likelihood of a set of change statements concerning emotional disturbance/behavioral disorders. Using a national random sample of 900 teachers, special education administrators, and school psychologists through two rounds of responses, estimates are made regarding the likelihood and the desirability of the condition represented by each statement occurring by the year 2000. Results are compared by variables of experience in the field, occupation, and level of educational attainment. Despite certain significant differences between groups the preponderant conclusion is that there is general agreement among the population surveyed regarding their expectations and sentiments about the future of the field.