Hong Kong parents of SEN children face public discrimination

Difficulty: Challenger (Level 3)

Almost half of surveyed parents in Hong Kong who have children with special educational needs (SEN) said their families faced negative treatment in public.

The Hong Kong Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) polled 520 parents of SEN children. They also spoke to 619 members of the public.

Among the families of SEN children, 47 per cent said they experienced “unfriendly reactions” in public. Of this group, 43 per cent reported receiving uncomfortable stares.

About 32 per cent said their children were mocked. Nearly 30 per cent experienced verbal abuse and bullying.

Three out of five members of the public blamed bad parenting for a child shouting, running around, or damaging things.

More than half of the surveyed parents of SEN children hoped passers-by could give them space when trying to calm their kids down.

Many expressed a desire to experience kindness from others. They asked that people in public refrain from staring at and discriminating against their children.

They also asked them not to scold their children or take photos.

Quiz time

1. How many parents of SEN kids were polled for the survey?

2. What percentage of parents felt uncomfortable because of stares?

3. What do families with SEN children wish for from people in public?

4. What do people often blame for a child’s loud or active behaviour?

YWCA’s study highlights the need for greater understanding and empathy towards families with SEN children. Photo: The Child Development Centre

Suggested answers

1. 520

2. 43 per cent

3. to experience kindness from others and get space when trying to calm their kids down

4. bad parenting