As a result, students with deafblindness are often isolated and socially segregated. While
researchers and advocates recognize the importance of facilitating relationships for students with severe
disabilities, many questions remain regarding what teachers think about peer relationships and what they
perceive as effective in supporting their efforts to facilitate friendships.
This study used a survey research methodology. Respondents rated how strongly they felt about issues
regarding friendships using a self-administered questionnaire. A checklist of various forms of training and
resources typically offered to teachers was also included and respondents identified items they perceived as
effective. Demographic information was used to identify pertinent teacher characteristics for analyses. The
questionnaire was administered to regular and special educators.
Data were analyzed based on the responses of 187 questionnaires. The first two research questions identified
components underlying teachers' attitudes toward friendship and methods for facilitating friendship. The third
question examined the relationship between teacher characteristics and components of friendship. The last
question examined the relationship between teacher characteristics and perceptions about the effectiveness of
training and resources. This study found seven factors, or components, of teachers' attitudes toward friendship.
Findings revealed that special educators held more positive attitudes than regular educators toward the
components of friendship. Furthermore, while regular educators strongly favored working with a consultant,
special educators strongly considered team teaching to be an effective form of support. Adapting the curriculum
and modifying materials were also identified as effective supports.
Outcomes of this study could lead to changes in the way support services and interventions are delivered to
teachers. Since teachers bear the final responsibility for creating opportunities and environments that facilitate
social inclusion, it is imperative that their concerns and suggestions be addressed in the development of training
programs.