Is Social Maladjustment Considered Emotional Disturbance?
by
Joseph C. Maya on Jul. 30, 2024
Summary: If you have any questions about special education or education law in general, contact one of our attorneys at (203) 221-3100.
Connecticut's definition of Emotional Disturbance (ED) states that students who are socially maladjusted are not eligible for special education unless they also meet the criteria for being emotionally disturbed. Certain traits, such as the inability to build or maintain satisfactory relationships with peers and teachers and inappropriate behaviors or feelings in typical situations, may align with both social maladjustment and emotional disability. In these instances, the criteria for ED - specifically, the duration, severity, and negative impact on educational performance - must be carefully assessed to avoid misidentifying students.
There is considerable discussion regarding the distinction between social maladjustment and emotional disability, and research indicates significant overlap in the characteristics associated with both. As a result, employing best practices in assessing students' social and emotional functioning will be essential for accurately defining these categories as outlined in IDEA and for making appropriate eligibility determinations.
Maya Murphy P.C. has proudly been included in the 2024 Edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked among the top firms in the nation. In addition, Managing Partner Joseph C. Maya has been selected to The Best Lawyers in America® 2024 for his work in Employment Law and Education Law in Connecticut. Recognition in Best Lawyers® is awarded to firms and attorneys who demonstrate excellence in the industry and is widely regarded by both clients and legal professionals as a significant honor.
Our firm in Westport, Connecticut serves clients with legal assistance all over the state, including the towns of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Bethel, Branford, Bridgeport, Brookfield, Cheshire, Danbury, Darien, Derby, East Haven, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Meriden, Middlebury, Milford, Monroe, Naugatuck, New Canaan, New Fairfield, New Haven, Newton, North Branford, North Haven, Norwalk, Orange, Oxford, Prospect, Redding, Ridgefield, Seymour, Shelton, Sherman, Southbury, Stamford, Stratford, Trumbull, Wallingford, Waterbury, West Haven, Weston, Westport, Wilton, and Woodbridge. In addition to assisting clients in Connecticut, our firm handles education law matters in New York as well.
If you have any questions or would like to speak to an attorney about a legal matter, please contact Joseph C. Maya and the other experienced attorneys at Maya Murphy, P.C. at (203) 221-3100 or JMaya@Mayalaw.com to schedule a free initial consultation today.