[Parent participation in the treatment of dyslexic children - the results of a paper-pencil questionnaire].

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the degree and manner of involving parents in the treatment of dyslexic children. The study also identified therapeutic variables predicting the extent of parent involvement and the reasons for any instances of failed involvement.

METHOD: A sample of 53 out of 120 randomly selected German dyslexia therapists (response rate: 44 %) filled out a paper-pencil questionnaire assessing the degree and manner of parent involvement in the treatment of dyslexic children. Furthermore, therapists' attitudes toward parent involvement and their subjective competence when working with parents were assessed.

RESULTS

The most common forms of parent involvement occurred during anamnesis and when drawing up recommendations for home exercises. The therapists' attitudes toward working with parents predicted the extent of parent involvement (β = .58). There was a significant correlation between working with parents and the subjective competence of the therapist (r = .28), which was mediated by therapists' attitudes toward parent involvement. Disinterest on the part of parents and therapists' lack of time proved to be reasons for less parent involvement.

DISCUSSION: Despite declared positive attitudes toward working with parents, the involvement of parents in the therapeutic process by therapists was limited.