This study examines the school adaptation and everyday experiences of women possessing mild intellectual disabilities who were taught in an inclusive educational environment. The study aims to identify alternative methods of improving the quality of l...
This study examines the school adaptation and everyday experiences of women possessing mild intellectual disabilities who were taught in an inclusive educational environment. The study aims to identify alternative methods of improving the quality of life for women with mild intellectual disabilities during their school and everyday routines. In-depth interviews were conducted with three women who had mild intellectual disabilities during their early adulthood. They received their education in an inclusive educational environment. The research questions were: How did the women with mild intellectual disabilities experience school life as ‘mild,’ ‘intellectual,’ and ‘girls’ in an integrated education environment? What practical support measures can improve the quality of school and daily life for women with mild intellectual disabilities? Two formal interviews were conducted with each participant, and the resulting data underwent qualitative content analysis. After analyzing the data, we identified eight sub-themes that fall under four core themes: 1) School day memories, 2) Identity as a young woman with an intellectual disability, 3) Adolescence, and 4) Support requirements. Our analysis revealed the realities of school life and social adaptation for girls with mild intellectual disabilities and discussed methods for addressing their support needs.