School Dropout From the Perspective of Former Students

Forty-four dropout youth with learning disabilities, behavior disorders, or mild mental retardation participated in an interview that included questions about school dropout. We categorized responses and identified key themes. Dominant themes were the need for teachers and administrators to change their attitude toward and treatment of these youth and the need for the youth themselves to change their attitude and behavior. Other themes included the need for more support from teachers, for changes in attendance and discipline policies, for better textbooks, and for a change in the way certain courses are taught.