Students with visual impairments in Israel: quality of life as a subjective experience

The present paper is based on research that investigated the quality of life of students with visual impairments, included in the regular education system, according to their own perceptions as reported in individual open interviews. The research comprised 19 students between the ages of 14 and 19 years. The main findings revealed three major themes: life in school with a focus on teachers' behavior towards the pupil; peers' reactions and the impact of stigma; family coping with the disability. Mixed feelings appeared in the first two themes. Regarding their teachers, the students reported support while at the same time they also felt a lack of sincere respect. Concerning peers, students felt that stigma affected their friendship behavior. Finally, most reports indicated satisfaction with the family bonds. Yet, there is almost no direct reference to the visual problem.