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The Role of Family and Situational Problems in Understanding and Reducing Impairment

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Assessing Impairment

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Abstract

Impairment has a widespread impact on family functioning, routines, activities, and relationships between family members. Families provide an invaluable resource in assessing and addressing the needs of individuals experiencing impairment as well as those of other family members. Impairment manifests itself in many ways, but all forms are contextually relevant. An ecological perspective provides an alternative conceptualization of impairment to a biological, medical model. This framework extends the focus of assessment and intervention beyond the individual to other contexts within which the individual interacts. Two of the most important contexts in which that children interact are the home and school environments. Families have a great deal of knowledge and expertise regarding an individual's level of behavioral, social, and academic functioning in multiple settings.

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  1. School Psychology Program, Rhode Island College, Providence, Rhode Island, 02908, USA

    John W. Eagle Ph.D.

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    Eagle, J.W. (2009). The Role of Family and Situational Problems in Understanding and Reducing Impairment. In: Naglieri, J., Goldstein , S. (eds) Assessing Impairment. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-387-87542-2_3

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