Variables which distinguish among classifications of exceptional childred: Learning disabled, emotionally disturbed, and educable mentally retarded

Abstract

The focus of this study was on children in public school classrooms who had been designated for special classes or as in need of special attention. It was the intent to take as many variables into account as possible relative to these children in order to determine significant associations among them. A discriminant analysis identified two functions which contributed to the separation of the criterion groups: LD, ED, EMR. Eight variables were found to significantly contribute to the discriminating power of the functions, classifying correctly 84% of the 62 cases.

Key Words:

• Learning disabled
• emotional disturbance
• mental retardation