Community Colleges and Individuals with Emotional Disorders

Abstract

Many children with emotional disorders continue to experience interpersonal difficulties when they become adults. Emotional and behavioral problems result in low levels of participation in postsecondary education, suppressed achievement, and eventual underemployment. To determine how postsecondary educational programs accommodate the needs of individuals with emotional disorders, 200 community colleges were surveyed. From the 137 surveys returned, it was determined that individuals with emotional disorders have been identified on most campuses (77.4%). In addition, 83% of the respondent colleges provide services for students with emotional disorders. The large majority of respondents reported a desire to serve adults with emotional disorders but funding limitations and priority conflicts place restraints on service expansion.