Childhood fears among children who are blind: the perspective of teachers who are blind. Issue 2 (3rd April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Al-Zboon, Eman
• Is Part Of: Early years. Volume 37:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 158
• Page End: 172
• Publication Date: 2017-04-03
• Subjects: Fear -- children -- visual impairments -- blind -- disability -- teachers; Early childhood education -- Periodicals; Early childhood teachers -- Training of -- Periodicals; 370.7122
• DOI: 10.1080/09575146.2016.1168789
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0957-5146

Abstract

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate childhood fears in children who are blind from the perspective of teachers who are blind. The study was conducted in Jordan. Forty-six teachers were interviewed. Results revealed that the main fear content in children who are blind includes fear of the unknown; environment-, transportation- and people-related fear; and fear of animals. The teachers reported that the reasons for fear in children with visual impairment include child-related reasons (internal reasons), lack of training (hearing, social skills, orientation and mobility [O&M] and tactile training), family factors and an unsuitable physical environment. O&M training, independence training, family counselling and environment adaptation were reported to be the best procedures to deal with fear in these children. Recommendations are provided in the light of the study.